Tiger Tem's Fashion Bites

Tiger Bites has moved!

2009-01-31T06:59:00.008Z

I'd like to thank you all so much for all your continued support with Tiger Bites.

I started Tiger Bites on the basis of my weekly double page in ThisDay Style. Its been mad fun and I've thoroughly enjoyed it.

Tiger Tem's Fashion Bites, is getting bigger and better!!

Being the closet techie geek that I am, I've been reading up on HTML and I've redesigned it all myself.
So no bells and whistles yet, but I think we're off to a good start.

I love, love, love reading all your comments and responses so PLEASE keep them coming.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you

http://www.tigertem.com

Make sure you take a good look at all the different sections and COMMENT!!!!
(Definitely don't miss out the entertainment section)

Please let me know your thoughts.

Anybody that think I should interview them, write about their brand, hotspot etc just send me an email and I'll see what I can do.

Temi@tigertem.com
tigerbites@gmail.com

xxxx

p.s. I said we all had to get this year started right didn't I?

p.p.s. any problems with the site, let me know.

Feeling Gilty?

2009-01-31T06:54:00.002Z

We all know about sample sales, the best part being the insanely low prices, the worst part being the possessed pushy grabby women competing with your possessed pushy and grabby self for those to die for rock bottom priced, high end designer shoes.

Well, for people with a US address at least, that is set to end as a I'm about to let you know how to bypass the queues.

Gilt.
Just click this link

http://www.gilt.com/invite/tigerbites

And we're talking golden names like Valentino, Chloe, as well as more contemporary names like Twenty8 Twelve, Catherine Malandrino, Botkier, Gryson, Sergio Rossi, Delman, Alice Temperley, James Perse, Me & Ro, Vera Wang, Marc Jacobs, Cynthia Rowley, Acne Jeans, Vivienne Tam, Missoni, lambertson Truex....need more?

Oscar De La Renta, Rachel Leigh, Malo, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent...ok I'll stop.

Just so you know, handbags fly. The bonus being a handbag is always the right size, unlike a dress or a pair of trousers.

And now I'm happy to share the love and pass on some invites.

Just click this link

http://www.gilt.com/invite/tigerbites

and you're just minutes away from guilt free gilt.

Please note, you can only sign up with a US address so if you don't have one, I'm going to do a post next week on a new UK based sample sale site.

Happy Shopping Ladies as believe me when I say its Xmas every day with Gilt.

xxxx

L.a.m.b. Hunter Shooboots

2009-01-28T07:26:00.002Z

I kinda like them.

But then again I kinda don't.

I think I'd need to see these up close and personal to decide.

$380.

www.eluxury.com

What say you?

I See You Baby - SAG Awards part 2

2009-01-27T19:59:00.004Z

It was brought to my attention by Dropsofglamour that I'd missed out a couple of fabulous outfits.

Taraji P Henson is wearing the hell out of this Herve Leroux dress.

Not crazy about the back view but the dress is too hot for that to matter much!

And I've tried to find something to love about Jenna Fischer's Pamela Roland dress...but sorry, I can't!
I don't like the way its shorter in the front, not crazy about the colour. Love the Neil Lane necklace though.

What does everyone else think of these two outfits?

I See You Baby - SAG Awards

2009-01-27T05:15:00.008Z

Don't know about you but for me far more interesting than who won what is who wore what.

So without further ado.....I See You Baby.

Evan Rachel Wood is looking less like a vampire and more like a vamp now that she's rid herself of the decidely not-alright-in-la-cabeza Marilyn Manson.
I'm loving this deep shade of teal on her Monique Lhuillier dress, very reminiscent of Nicole Kidman in that Gucci dress (Golden Globes in 1995).
Love the contrast Evan has provided with the bright pink Sergio Rossi clutch and heels.

And for those who can't remember this is Nicole's Gucci dress.

Emily Blunt is a quintessential English Rose and to date I think she stole the show in Devil Wears Prada. Love the hair and makeup but this Pamela Roland dress is just vintage showgirl and n.a.s.t.y.

Isn't it amazing what dating a con man has done for Anne Hathaway's publicity? Clearly her PR people know how to play the press like a piano. Props.
This Azzaro dress, hmmm, leaves me feeling a little undecided.
Its almost gorgeous. Almost fabulous.
Close but no cigar.

Now here's some serious A-List untouchable glamour. Angelina looks amazing. The Max Azria dress would probably look crap on most people but it looks divine on this mother of what is it 6? 7?
I love the dusky dark blue, love the simple gold hoops, love the understated makeup with a heavy handed dose of liquid liner and I even love the borderline bouffant hair!

Amy Adams is a great actress. Love, love, love the colour of this Giambattista Valli dress. Not feeling the make up. I think its the red lips, not a fan under the best of circumstances and I think either a nude or much deeper rouge noir-esque colour would work better.

Reminds me a little of my Black halo dress that I'm still obsessed with (maybe the obsession will wane when I finally wear it).

Actually looking at them side by side, sorry Giambattista Valli but I prefer my Black Halo!

Olivia Wilde (who?) looking a little like a Grinch stole not just Christmas but her breakfast (and lunch, and dinner).

Not crazy about the Ralph Lauren Art Deco dress. Its that satiny chevron pleated detail around the hips. Me no likey.
Love the halter neck, they seem to be making a bit of a comeback for sexy evening gowns.
Love the soft wavy hair and the gold jewellery too.

I was getting all excited about Kyra Sedgwick looking so hot for her age in Vintage Chanel.
Then I checked her age.
She's only 44. Scary.

Kate Winslet looking smug as a bug who trumped the cat that got the cream.
Damn!
She's filling out her Narciso Rodriguez dress in the best way possible.
He's one of my favourite designers, understated, glamorous, sophisticated.
And how HOT is this majestic shade of blue? Love it!

January Jones reminding us she's not as blah as her Delia Smith-esque character on mad men.
There's quite a bit going on with this Andrew Gn number but i think she pulls off the Cleopatra look.
Just about. Love the make up too. Must try that.

Freida Pinto is just the cutest new starlet to hit the scene in forever.
So far (well the Golden Globes and these) she's turned up looking fabulous AND stands out in what seems to be her own style.
She doesn't look like anyone else, she's not morphing into Young, Hot Hollywood and she's ethnic! Yaaaayyyy!
Love, love, love, love this Marchesa dress on her. Not an easy dress to wear but I'm loving it.

Your thoughts?

Tiger's Got Some Brand New Shoes

2009-01-22T22:36:00.006Z

A very curious thing happened towards the end of last year.

I'm a big believer in buying yourself grand presents. For your birthday, splash out and get that ring you've had your eye on. For Xmas bag yourself that fabulous piece of Arm Candy. When you get a promotion, get yourself those ridiculous shoes you've been lusting after.

Anybody who is honest enough with themselves knows that however great it is to receive....you always appreciate the things you worked for yourself...just a little bit more.

So pre-xmas, I decided I was going to get myself some astonishingly nice and serious budget busting shoes.

Off I went to the fanciest department store I could find with my heart set on some Louboutins.

The sales assistant was fantastic, some really old guy (who curiously seemed straight), but had the patience of a saint and the eye of an artisan.

So there I was prancing around in literally every single pair of Louboutins they had.

Kinda liked these, but I've got really skinny feet (who knew there was such a thing) and these just didn't sit right on me. Booooo.

Patent Pumps....simply, stylish, sophisticated, yes. But also, mind-numbingly dull for my shoe taste.

I love the satin D'Orsay pumps but I have seen them just a bit too much to actually want to own them. Can't help but feel it would be a little 'me-too' for my liking.

After all that prancing around I was quite disappointed to realise I didn't actually want any of them. Perhaps its because the autumn/winter collection is more than just a little bit dry and seems to be a not so dazzling array of round toe pumps, and I wasn' feeling the slightly S&M boots either.

Imagine that. After my many years lusting after Louboutins, I'm there all set to buy (FINALLY) and nada. Why is it when you can't buy something you constntly see what you want and then the secodn you'r ready to buy....there's nothing you want.

Anyway, I'll keep my eye on the Spring/Summer collections.

But on the plus side, I did discover another shoe designer that I fell in love with. Cynthia Vincent.

Hadn't heard much about her. I knew she had one of those so cool it hurts clothing labels, but shoes?

I LOVED THEM!

Californian born, Parson graduate that cut her teeth in the London fashion industry, Cynthia Vincent has maintained a low profile on a personal level while gaining critical acclaim and a very strong A-List following professionally.

She's a 'Contemporary Designer' as opposed to 'Premium Designer' which is just shop talk for her shoes being under $500.

Now these are some round toe pumps with a bit of personality. Love the subtle stripe detail on the side. $250.

Quite possibly a little too much personality going on here...but they would look fabulous worn to a wedding with a simple black or white shift. And one of those big kahuna hats. Or a fascinating fascinator. (I've got two very friends getting married this summer so closer to the time we'll be looking at a myriad of options for what to wear to weddings)>

I am in LOVE with these shoes. So much I think I might have to go back for them. Its in the subtle shimmer of the metallic silk, the d'orsay shape and the heel...just look at that heel.

And another view from the Cynthia Vincent Loreli from the side. $230.

And I saved my favourites for the last. The uberglam Marilyn's. And they've got the high quality crystal as these shimmer and sparkle. i was drawn to them like a complete magpie. And the bit at the front is really low so you only see a smidgen of your toes, which is a very retro touch, and one that is so damn sexy!

I LOVE these babies and yes, they made it home with me that day.

When I grow up

2009-01-21T04:08:00.003Z

....I wanna be like the Obamas!!!!

Damn. Just look at these people. I love the way they're just so damn TOGETHER.

And watching the parades he was busting some slightly old man moves and Michelle was happily bopping at his side.

And the kids were looking a little bored but adorable as ever.

Its all so picture perfect...I want it when I grow up!

And if the Mr should ever decide to branch into politics, I'll be bringing the fabulosity to the First Lady wardrobe.

AND I'm not just a pretty face so I'll help out with relevant and useful policies and how to make Nigeria a better place.

Sigh...oh yes, I have a dream too people! (NO chopping government funds and NO jollofing on the job though!!!!!!)

The Great Bag Debate

2009-01-20T07:37:00.005Z

Five years later and I find myself with the same problem.

I'm looking for the perfect day bag and I can't find one.

It was five years ago the same problem prompted me to start Tiger Tem in the first place. Looking back, I appreciate what an ambitious venture it was, but what's life without some huge challenges?

My criteria this time round...remains spookily the same.
1. I'm not a fan of the status bag. The whole notion of a status bag, says too much about too little and is just a little too chav-tastic for me. Snob? Moi...you betcha.

2. I'm a leather lover

3. I'm open to colour.

4. I'm looking for an east-west bag (i.e. wide as opposed to tall), one that's roomy enough to fit my laptop

5. And I want something that has enough pockets to help keep my life in order.

6. Under $500. Credit crunch ain't no joke.

I am in love with this Alexis Hudson bag! I love the deep, dark, sexy bordeaux leather, I love the vintage inspired shape and I love the twist lock on the front. Dayum, I think I might have lucked out from the start. And the best bit?
Its reduced from $625 to $375 www.bluefly.com

Hmmm, another very understated bag that appeals to me a lot. This is by Brazilian designer Elisa Atheniense. I love the fusion of the snakeskin straps, the contrast overstitching and the buttery soft leather.
$443 www.tobi.com

This bag toes the line between a nice touch of glam and trying a little too hard so the jury's still out. But I like the soft grey leather and the stud details which toughen up the butterfly design on the front. The added touch of snakeskin looks great in the picture but I suspect there might just be a little bit too much going on for my liking.
Betsey Johnson Butterfly Bling (and they just had to kill it with the name).
$395 now $222 www.bloomingdales.com

This shade of orange is usually best left to Hermes but you know what, it works. I love the shape, size and colour of this bag. Its an absolutely fabulous $56 from www.baghaus.com but the only rub...its not real leather.

Who knew Badgley Mischka had launched a line of handbags? And all very moderately priced too. I'm liking the 'Sofia' a lot. Not crazy about the colour though. But its a great shape and size for everyday use. $455 www.saksfifthavenue.com

I love the star patchwork detail and embroidered handle on this Tracy Reese bag. I love the deep denim blue and the contrast the handle offers. Very, very cute.
$365 down to $179...just made it a whole lot cuter! www.smartbargains.com

Ohhh, I fell in love with Liberty all over again last year. Its always been of my favourite underdogs and the genius behind their new own brand accessory line has worked their magic with this Ianthe print leather bag. Love it, need it, want it.
395 for the mini, 450GBP for the small and 550GBP for the medium
www.liberty.co.uk

Another lesser known brand JJ Winters offers up this piece of fabulousity. Ok, the blue is a tad bright to get much play but I love it anyway. More of a posh beach bag truth be told than an every day bag, but we all need posh beach bags too. $460 www.shopharmony.com

Furla certainly seem to have a new design team in place since the last time I gave them so much as a glance. I hated that hard, stiff leather they used for their bags. It works great for the little leather make up bags and jewellery cases but otherwise...nah. But this, supersoft, chocolate brown bowling bag...I am loving. 335GBP.

But I have to say I'm still madly in love with this Tiger Tem baby from 2005.

And still even more in love with the Goldfinger. Which has hands down been the best selling bag we've launched. New plans in store for this year with the bags. The new Ikoyi spot should FINALLY be ready by easter...ok, lets just say by summer right?!

House of Harlow

2009-01-16T17:36:00.004Z

Another day, another celebrity 'brand'.

So Nicole Richie's jewellery line has finally hit the online retailers. It launched in Kitson, Los Angeles towards the end of last year and its now available from,www.singer22.com and www.shopkitson.com

The line is named after her daughter Harlow and the 'House of' os a throwback to a bygone era of old school glamour.

“I’ve always felt that great accessories are essential in every complete outfit and I wanted to create a collection that was easy to mix and match; to either wear alone as an everyday piece, or stack on to make more of a statement,” Nicole said in a press release. House of Harlow 1960,is a 35 piece collection ranging in price from $50 to $250 and inspired by Nicole’s sought-after style. Teaming up with celeb jeweler Pascal Mouawad, Nicole’s line uses leather, silk strings, chains, rivets, gold plated metals, peacock feathers and jewel-tone colors to explore themes like bohemian, gypsy, tribal, flower child and edgy street wear.

I love Nicole Richie's style, she always manages to look cute, sexy in that perfectly laidback and relaxed kind of way. And she always has the best accessories so I guess starting an accessory line was a natural progression. She's definitely channeling her love of all things vintage and the collection is surprisingly good. Retro styling, a distinct look and very affordable prices. Me likey.

The very flower child, trippy hippy and perhaps not all that wearable if you're not Nicole Richie headpiece is $170. I really need to see someone else looking cute in that for me to believe its wearable to the hoi polloi.

A collage of piece from the House of Harlow collection by www.whowhatwear.com

These Aztec inspired Gold, resin and black stone earrings are a recessionista friendly price at $32.

These feather inspired earrings are more dramatic and perfect for an evening out,$75.

I love the fact that this Aztec bangle is made with leather. $75.

House of Harlow 1960, Sunburst Stations necklace.

"African jewellery inspired this ring"...now why did she have to go and say that? I like the ring though. $45.

House of Harlow 1960, Hinged cuff.

I See You Baby - Golden Globes

2009-01-14T17:50:00.005Z

The award season is underway and 'I See You Baby' will let you know who rocked the bells on the red carpet.

Cameron Diaz rocks the rose pink Chanel.

Renee Zellwegger in Carolina Herrera...hmmm. Looking a little closer and hmmmm.

Brangelina.....hmmmm.

And a closer look at Angie....Hmm.

Ashton...hmm. Loving the look of Demi's dress though.

Anne Hathaway looking some old school glamour in Armani Privee.

J-Lo in a gold Marchesa. Looking like a million other dresses we've seen her in. Blah.

Kate Beckinsale looking positively angelic in this gorgeous white dress.

I'll do my best to find a proper long shot of Eva but this dress is looking absolutely fabulous from what I can see.

Here we go...Eva, Heidi and Kate all looking delectable at the Instyle party.

Beyonce in Elie Saab. Looking fabulous but again, feels like something we've seen a million times.

Drew Barrymore in baby blue Dior.

Slumdog Millionaire is getting mad press, I really want to see it. Anyone seen it yet?
This is the star of the film, Freida Pinto.

Eva Mendes looking fabulous in the white dress with turquoise accessories.

Miley looking fabulous in Marchesa. A surprisingly well put together look for her. Felling it.

I'm with J

2009-01-13T06:11:00.006Z

Another day, another dollar.

A not so new brand has popped up on my horizon recently.

I'd always dismissed them as being a little too Ivy League preppy. You know the kind of preppy that's a caricature of preppy.

But then I went into their store.

And then even better than that, I went onto their website.

A+ for effort for the stylists and photographers. And the model bookers as this website just wanted to make me own EVERYTHING they're selling.

And the best bit is with the post-xmas credit crunch, the sales are looking rather inviting.

I know I'm not with Vince and his Entourage, but I definitely think I'm rolling with J and his Crew.

www.jcrew.com

A white tank and blue jeans. Very simple but the way its been styled with that certain je ne sais quoi. 3 tanks for $20. And they look as if they're slightly long which makes sure you're always saying no to crack, no matter how low riding your low riders are. Love it, love it, love it.

Bright red trousers always makes me think of Spain. i swear, I've never been anywhere in the world where the men and women wear bright red trousers as much as Spain. Anyway, these fabulously sophisticated looking cords come in a wide range of colours are are reduced from $79 to $19. I love a well cut, well fitting pair of cords in Autumn, Winter and Spring so if you haven't discovered the ass-tastic properties of fitted corduroy, this might just be the ticket.

Very preppy but i love it. I love the way this big button cashmere henley been styled with the ruffle collar shirt, gold belt, mustard skirt and jade clutch. I wouldn't wear it that way (I'd go for superskinny skinnies and heels) but it just looks fabulous. Want it.

See? Even when you're totally chilling out at the weekend you can look equally fabulous. i think its the off kilter colour combinations that really do it for me. I abhor matchy-matchy, its all about the carefully executed contrast. Jade green and mustard, hadn't thought of that one before. Loving it. And two 'Perfect Fit' Mandarin collar Henley tops for $35? Love it even more.

I'm in all types of love with this coat, the Double Cloth Lady Day Coat. Reduced from $330 to $149. They fit like a dream and I would buy one if I didn't get an extremely fabulous coat for Xmas. See...I'm trying really hard at this moderation with shopping thing this year.

I would never have thought of wearing this skirt like this, but its just Cashmere Mafia (RIP) fabulous. The Double Serge pencil skirt is just all types of office sexy and its reduced from $128 to $79. Go on, buy it, make the men in the office weak. The skinny belt (which is making a comeback) really adds something. I'd like to thank my two little nieces for the pink stingray skinny belt they got me for Xmas. Too cute!

They have a wedding and party collection which has some surprisingly fabulous dresses. Like this one, The Silk Tricotine Cecelia dress. Don't know about getting married in it, but it is very sexy in that skims-the-bod-in-all-the-right-places kind of way.

Another dress from the wedding and party collection, this is the Silk Taffeta Kate and its not my usual style but I love it. And that fabulous shade of champagne. I defy you to not look a million dollars in this baby.

And then there's the J Crew Collection which is a a new offshoot that's just seen them open their first J Crew Collection stand alone store. And quite frankly with a homepage like this, why wouldn't you want to hotfoot it down there?

The milk chocolate cashmere coat, the bright pink scarf, the beaded belt and the surprisingly sexy jacquard trousers. J Crew Collection...Me likey.

Who knew it was possible to work so many layers and manage to look so chic. I'll draw the line at the 'khaki pants' though. For men only. Loving those sparkly shoes though.

J Crew Collection at its sexy secretary finest. Why is it only on TV and in magazines anyone manages to actually look like a sexy secretary? And can anyone tell me what on earth is sexy about secretaries anyway? Enough for that to be one of the strongest typically sexy female stereotypes. I just don't get it. Surely the broad with the corner office is a bit more enticing?

I love travelling, I love travel accessories and two of my all time favourite brands are Valextra and Globetrotter. Not for the faint of hard or weak of pocket but damn, I want this suitcase!

Bag Lady

2009-01-06T22:10:00.005Z

New Year and back to the grind.

I'll have lots of exciting new things to share with you this year.

To start with, I found the most unusual bag by a relatively unknown designer.

Katherine Kwei.

I hadn't heard much about her but her career began in PR in Hong JKong fior Louis Vuitton, spanninbg 14 countries in the Asia Pacific region. In 2002, she left Louis Vuitton to pursue an MA in Accessories at the well respected Cordwainers in London. She then went on to work with Susannah Hunter (who taught me at St Martins), then the Billy Bag company then she moved to Nerw York and after a six month work placement with Zac Posen....she launched her own line.

Her bags are available at small boutiques and stores across the world such as Henri Bendel, Scoop and Takashimaya in New York, Holt Renfew in Canada and Lane Crawford in Hong Kong.

"Katherine Kwei handbags blends everything from luxury brands to vintage pieces to the latest street wear to create a polished yet chic and playful, figure-flattering silhouette. I hope that my refined sensibility reflects in my pieces and appeals to a woman who is confident and secure in her own sense of style."

Its a bit like Marmite, either you love it or you hate it.....

This is the Safira which makes a great day bag. Love the colour, love the detail.

This silver python fabulosity is the Teresa Hobo.

As fabulous as I think both bags are, and as much as they indicate a strong sense of style from the designer...I can't help but feel I'd rip the bag to shreds the first time I used it as those tassle are bound to catch on EVERYTHING. And I'm a pretty careful person who really looks after my stuff.

Your thoughts?

Tiger Bites - If

2009-01-02T04:49:00.002Z

IF

If you can keep your head when all about you

Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,

If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you

But make allowance for their doubting too,

If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,

Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,

Or being hated, don't give way to hating,

And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,

If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;

If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster

And treat those two impostors just the same;

If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken

Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,

Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,

And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:

If you can make one heap of all your winnings

And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss,

And lose, and start again at your beginnings

And never breath a word about your loss;

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew

To serve your turn long after they are gone,

And so hold on when there is nothing in you

Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,

Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch,

If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;

If all men count with you, but none too much,

If you can fill the unforgiving minute

With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,

Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,

And--which is more--you'll be a Man, my son!

--Rudyard Kipling

Had to share. its one of my all time favourites and always relevant, especially as we usher in a New Year.

Back to the fashion frivolity tomorrow!

xxx

Goodbye to '08 and a big hello to '09

2009-01-02T04:26:00.004Z

Now we're officially in the New Year, since the clock struck midnight I've been thinking about what I want to achieve this year.

1. Learn the importance of baby steps
I want it and I want it now.

Well, we all know the story of the tortoise and the hare.

Slow and steady wins the race so I'll be practicing what I preach. I'll get where I'm going but I just need to remember the art of taking it all in small steps. Every now and then you'll be offered a leap frog opportunity, no need to wait for them, they'll always appear and as an opportunist that hears the opportunity before it knocks....missed opportunities is not something I need to worry about.

2. Get to grips with the basic building blocks of finance
Money coming in must exceed money going out. So simple really. So deceptive when you don't pay attention. Must pay more attention.

I know many of you like me have many items that you just 'had to have' that have sat unworn in your wardrobes for months. Money well spent yes? I'm guilty as charged, right before Xmas I spunked a wad of cash on this divine dress...divine. It looked great online and it looked a bazillion times better on. In fact, its so nice, I have no idea where on earth I'm going to wear it to but I guess something will turn up. Maybe on my birthday.

But my new recessionista rule for 2009 is if I can't say with 100% certainty when and where I'll wear it within the next month, put it down. Seriously, put it down.

3. Build More
In every sense. Primarily in the business sense though. Bigger and better but slow and steady.

4. Write more
Magazines, blogs, online publishing. You name it. I'm writing for it. Keep those offers coming in.
This blog has been my baby

5. Allow myself the occasional pat on the back
I'm hitting the big 3-0 this summer and as a classic overachiever it never feels like enough. But you know what, its not too shabby either.

6. Get better acquainted with the gym
Your tush can never be too tight.
Sandy, this Xmas we'll see who can bounce coins higher of their ass.!

xxx

Happy Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T20:02:00.003Z

I'd like to thank all my fabulous readers for reading my blog, posting your comments and sharing the love.

I just took a little trip down memory lane to see what I was talking about this time last year.

www.tigerbites.blogspot.com/2007/12/do-you-still-make-resolutions.html

I still don't believe in making resolutions but as I'm a goal oriented person I like to set goals to achieve. Same thing, different lingo?

My aims for 2008 were..lets see how I did at achieving them.

1. Increased financial stability.
Hmmm. Tricky one. I think I'm better at managing my money now. Not sure about the increased financial stability but I'll settle for increasING financial stability.

2. Develop Tiger Tem
Kinda sorta. I developed a jewellery brand under a new name instead. Once the ecommerce is up and running I'll share the details but so far, so very good! Not sure what 2009 holds for Tiger Tem but I'll keep you posted.

3. Develop a secondary career
This time last year it was a toss up between writing and interiors. Pleased to say writing won! Its been going very well, I've been writing for a wider range of publications in different parts of the world, and two (possibly three) very exciting looking projects for 2009 so I'll pat myself on the back for that.

2008. Its been a great year, ups and downs, good bits, bad bits and ugly bits.

But as long as you can wave adieu to 2008 with a smile and welcome 2009 with a wink and in style.....you're on the right track.

Have a good one and I'll be back with more good stuff in 2009.

In the meantime, in case you missed out on the love of gilt last time...here it is again.

www.gilt.com/invite/tigerbites

The best sample sale site ever and you can sign up for a limited time period through my personal link.

Enjoy.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Things to Do Over Xmas

2008-12-27T22:06:00.006Z

1. Correct anybody that says Happy Holidays with Merry Xmas.
I'm so with Diddy on this, check out his Diddy Blog on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ofCma-P9RM

Xmas is not about holiday time people, its about the birth of Jesus. So the next time somebody says 'Happy Holidays', smile and say 'Its Merry Xmas actually'. You don't need to be PC about calling things what they actually are. If a Jew said Happy Hanukkah to me on Hanukkah, I wouldn't be offended, I'd just say Right back atcha.

All this overly sensitive PC nonsense needs to stop. Respecting everybody's culture, belief and customs are the way forward, not homogenising everything to a glorious hue of beige.

2. Exercise.
With the recession looking deeper and darker than most of us had anticipated we're all going to be spending a lot of time at home. No need to let your increased sofa contact turn you into a lard ass though. Get thee to a gym. Or if not, walk long distances, jog, get a skipping rope, whatever tickles your fancy, just make sure you do some exercise.

Nothing like being broke and a few/several inches thicker all over to make the recession seem a hell of a lot worse than it is.
...make the most of the extra free time by getting yourself better acquainted with some exercise. Your ass will thank you for it.

Currently on my On-The-Go playlist
Camp Lo - Lumdi (yes, they're back!)
Lupe Fiasco - Hip Hop Saved My Life (Lupe I can live without, but I'm loving Nikki Jean's vocals)
Jazmin Sullivan - I Need You Bad Remix (she opened for Maxwell ...you know, the show where we were front and centre!!!)
Cut Copy - Lights and Music (discover the underdog and learn to love them people)
Estelle - Come Over (not a huge Estelle fan but I'm loving this one)
Lady Gaga - Just Dance (fun, upbeat, pefect gym/club song)
T-Pain and Justin Timberlake - Can't Believe It remix (trousersnake, on the vocoder, love it!)
Beyonce - Diva (don't like the video much but feeling the 'tude of the song)
Geto Boys - My Mind's Playing Tricks on Me (old school, they did almost all of it better)

3. Read
Most of our broke asses will be sitting out the recession at home so get yourself better acquainted with the low cost past-times. A good healthy mix of a little silly chick lit with some classics and a light sprinkling of contemporary classics will keep you entertained and intrigued. Reading for me is like feeding your mind and soul. You get to meet a wide range of people, discover places, vicariously live through experiences you'd never get to learn about any other way. Curiosity might have killed the cat but being daft as a dodo doesn't look all that fascinating either so, grab a nice Liberty cushion, a blanket and start working your way through some seriously good reads.

I do about a book a week so if anyone is interested in getting a book swap going, I'm game.

Here's my list of a few fabulous reads. Read them quick as the entertainment industry has a nasty habit of picking great books and turning them into crap films and TV shows.

Lipstick Jungle - Candace Bushnell
Candace Bushnell is the reigning Queen of the chick lit scene in my opinion. A genre of books that can be so mind numbingly dull, you really need to choose very wisely.

I've read all her books so far and this was by far my favourite (I'm awaiting the arrival of One 5th Ave so I'll let you know what I think about that after I read it). Its sexy, string, plausible, glamorous and set against the sexy decadent backdrop that is New York. Victory the fashion designer, Nico Reilly, Head of Bonfire (clever word play on Bonfire of the Vanities that makes me think its a thinly veiled Vanity Fair), and Wendy Healy, married to the beautiful but not so sharp Shane, studio head of Parador.

This book is a much better read if your mind hasn't been adversely affected by the decidedly sub-par TV show.

Shantaram - Gregory David Roberts
Don't be put off by the sheer size of this book....and it is HUGE. A friend of mine in Spain gave me a copy and I almost left it there as it was so damn heavy and bound to tip my case over the baggage allowance.

Its at least 1000 pages but it moves quickly as Lin's story takes us from his escape from a 19 year sentence in Australia to the under belly of India which sees him moving with all walks of life from slum lords, slum dwellers, his Pakistani taxi driver who becomes his best friend Prabakar aka LinBaba....and of course, the girl, Karla.

Every man's story centres around a girl and even for hard-as-nails Lin, the elusive and beautiful Karla proves the rule. It is one of the best books I've read in a long time and although it has faint echoes of Papillon, this is also a based on Gregory David Roberts true life story. Gregory David Roberts captures the essence of live in India, and the chameleon like qualities Lin possesses allows him to traverse the country and society and get front row and centre seats to every social strata.

Yes, Hollywood is butchering it. The film is due for release in 2011, but it might just be redeemed by the fact that Johnny Depp is playing the lead. I'd pictured Lin as a heftier, almost shaven headed Russell Crowe type, but we shall see how this pans out.

100 Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
A true Latin classic that is characterised by magical realism and a musical and melodious literary flow. I have a lot of love for Latin writers as more often that not they manage to weave a strain of beautiful fantasy into their story lines...and oh my, the way the Latin writers speak of love. This book doesn't have a conventional plot, more a series of connected narratives. The underlying tone, as I understood it, seemed to be, don't forget your history, culture and where you came from (so I'm sure he'd agree with me and Diddy on the nonsense of Happy Holidays).

His second (?) book Love in A Time of Cholera was penned almost 20 years later and is a story centred on the complicated love between Fermina, Juvenal and Urbino. If you ever need to find great quotes on love, say if you need to do a reading at a friend's wedding or something, leave all the 'How shall I compare thee to a summer's day' nonsense at the door and give the people something interesting, powerful. magical and real to think about.

On Beauty - Zadie Smith
I've read all her books so far, White Teeth, The Autograph Man and her most recent work, On Beauty.

I really didn't get what all the fuss was about White Teeth, The Autograph Man, for me, was a much more interesting read and On Beauty is a fantastic book. It was hard for anyone in my vicinity to talk to me when I wasn't at work or asleep as I was constantly reading this boo. Its a look at the inner machinations of a British/American family living in the fictional university town of Wellington, just outside Boston. Howard Belsey is the never quite lived up to his full potential professor from England, his wife, Kiki is his robust, rambunctious African American wife and they have three very lovable children, the quiet tortured soul Jerome, the acerbic, insecure and incredibly intelligent Zora and Levi...who is just a little boy lost in hip hop translation, and an absolutely adorable one at that.

I loved the accuracy with which Zadie captured all the characters in her book, you feel like you're practically living with the Belseys and watching the emotional landscape constant;y shifting and changing in that way characteristic of all families. The book has many other characters such as Howard's professional nemesis Monty Kipps who is of Caribbean descent and an infinitely more successful academic, and his devastatingly beautiful daughter Victoria who seems willing or unwilling (you decide) to wreak havoc wherever she goes.

Half of a Yellow Sun - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
It took me a while to get round to reading this. i love the fact that a young Nigerian author is doing so well on the global stage but I have to say, i was more than just a little bit put off when I met Ngozi at an event, I was presenting an award and she was doing a book reading and she came off as just a little bit frosty and stand-offish. So while that put me off reading her book for a while, I'm glad I did as its fantastic.

It follows the lives of a rich Igbo family with twin daughters around the time of the Biafran war in Nigeria. We watch the stories of the beautiful twin Olanna, her professor lover Odenigbo who she moves to the town of Nsukka to live with. Her seemingly cold and reserved twin Kainene, her English lover Richard who feels as Biafran as anyone else and the charming and accurately captured 13 year old houseboy Ugwu. I wasn't around to see the Biafran war but this book tells the story of the savage violence and tribal hatred in such an accurate way, it helps to understand the underlying strain of tribal relations in Nigeria.

All He Wants For Xmas

2008-12-23T08:44:00.012Z

Even though I just told you what he really wants for Xmas.....if you must spend your hard earned shoe money on a present that you can put under the tree....here are my suggestions for your boyfriend/fiance/husband/object of affection.

I'll just start by saying the boys are very very difficult to get the right present for, if its something techie, they were probably one of the 5000 people that turned up at the Apple store the day it was released or its extortionate.

I've asked around and here are some of the very helpful answers I was given.

Porsche Carrerra GT2...yawn.

Pagani Zonda...a little more interesting but....yawn.

Mayback Brabus....what are you, an African president?

Bentley Continental GT Turbo...nice, very nice but David Beckham you ain't which means I don't have Vicky B's budget...yet.

But I'm guessing chances are, credit crunch and all, those might be a little bit out of your price range.

So here are some suggestions that are actually useful!

Most guys quite possibly have one of these already but you can always get him another one, for his office, the bedroom, kicthen..anywhere really, it will always be well received and it will always get used.

The BlackBerry Bold is a pretty popular choice, so is the storm so choose according to the depth of your pockets.

The other new phone that's been getting all techie freaks excited is the new Google phone the G1.

A watch can be a great choice, but only if you know his taste really really well....and if he already has a watch he wears all the time he'll need a reason to wear a different one. Like a dress watch, or a more everyday watch. I like this one, its a good choice for someone slightly younger or with more edgy style...from Invicta.

This is a more 'proper' option for a watch, also from Invicta. Its got that big, sturdy look I love with mens' watches and while its not cheap at $524....it is a lot cheaper than a lot of the big kahuna watches.

Computrace is $59.95 for a year's subscription and while it might not be the most exciting gift, after my Mac-napping incident, I can see how this could ber very, very useful. The software you install on your laptop enables your laptop, if stolen, to be tracked and then the HQ partners with local law enforcement to get your laptop back. Nice. I'd love to be there for the swoop on that!

Forget the widescreen plasma/LCD screen.....you need to get a projector in the house. Not credit crunch friendly admitted, but you'll probably be stuck home a lot more while we ride out the recession so you might as well make home the most fun place to be.

I'm a little obsessed with globes, i could stare at one (and often do) for hours and not get bored. the world is a very big place, learn about it. Replogle do some rather fabulous sexy looking globes so chances are that would be a well received gift...interesting at least.

And most women will never pass up an opportunity to stick our fingers in the pie that is his wardrobe...so here are a few good winter picks.

Erase all images of Patrick Bateman from your minds, and consider some leather gloves. They actually look better and a little more grown up on men than the cute woolly ones.

Cult brand Junk De Luxe are very popular for the retro styling. Love this jumper from www.asos.com.

A cheeky Tshirt never goes amiss.

No need to slack off completely when he's chilling out. Relax in style with this cashmere hoody from Vince.

And just in case you happen to not like the one he's wearing on Xmas day, 'convince' him he has to wear his new gift. Nothing like a fabulous cashmere jumper on a guy. This one is by Toscano and is a bargaintastic $80 from Nordstrom.

For Your Brother or any other Male Relative

Brother's and male relatives can also be tricky people to chose presents for.

The Game (Penetrating The Secret Society of Pick Up Artists by Neil Strauss $15.
Even if he think's he's got game, he could probably do with some help (unless he's married). I've read this book, pretty interesting read, and once he can get over the fact that he think's you're dissing his game and actually reads the book, he might learn a thing or two! It's not a fool proof manual, all women are different, all men are different so not everything will work on everyone, but the basis getting the ladies is confidence.....now that is sexy.

If you have a teenage relative to get a present for, get him this, he'll be so mortified by his understanding of the title you'll probably never be required to get him a present again...ever. The Art Of Seduction By Robert Greene, contrary to what the title implies is not about how to bed the ladies, its way better, its about how to get into people's heads, stay there and play them like pianos...a very interesting read!

Tipping Point By Malcolm Gladwell is another great choice for a book gift. Very interesting look at the phenomena of how small things can make the biggest differences. And yes, I know, I read A LOT!

If any of the men in your life have a nimble way with words and find themselves travelling alot, this Jack Spade travel Scrabble set from Neiman Marcus could make a great gift. And even if he doesn't travel much, he'll be home a lot through the credit crunch so might as well keep that brain ticking!

Who didn't LOVE this film? And if he happens to get the projector for Xmas too....and you in a bow, it will be the Xmas that topped all Xmasses!

Enjoy and Have a fantastically fabulous time over the holidays!

Merry Xmas!

xoxo.

All He Wants For Xmas

2008-12-23T08:41:00.001Z

All he wants for Xmas is you wrapped up in a bow.

Easy.

xx

All I Want For Xmas Is.....

2008-12-19T05:52:00.011Z

Dear Santa,

I think I've been pretty good this year so I'll make this really easy, as many of any of the following items.

They're not in any order of preference.

Thanks.

And for anyone else looking for ideas, this list will be pretty handy for any of the women in your life (wife, girlfriend, sister, cousin, BFF)

Santa, I'm not normally a make-up junkie but this just looks like crack in the form of a beauty box. There is something for everybody in here. I gots to get me a hit. And its only $48 from www.sephora.com

And for a little more girlie nonsense, I really do need a beanie replacement and I love this crocheted version from Portobello princess Domakaya.

I love a good book, and I've loved all Candace Bushnell books so far, so I'm sure her new romp, One Fifth Avenue will be entrenched in the upper echelons of debauched Manhattan society yet again....love it already. £8.99/$15.99 www.amazon.com

Another great book from Cecelia Aherne, which my Mac-napper stole when they stole my laptop (and no I can't/won't forgive and forget)...so I'd like to be able to finish reading the book I was half way through. Seems a bit like a modern day Scrooge tale, lots of lessons for us to learn over the festive season...so I hope Mac-napper learns a thing or two about MORALS.

Yes Santa, I know I still have an ipod, but its really really old and kinda on its last legs so I'd quite like a cute bew updated version. In purple preferably, thanks. www.apple.com $138

And while we're on the topic of techy bits and pieces, I'd love some new earbuds and yes I'm loving these buds embedded with a storm grey Swarovski gem. Cheesy? Yes very, so just load me up with a good dose of cheddar in the form of these. Thanks. www.swarovski.com

Oh Santa, after much deliberation between the iPhone and the BlackBerry I think I'd like a crackberry for Xmas please, the Bold preferably, or the Storm...whichever you find first.

I am in all types of love with candles from www.thewhitecompany.com. A Xmas supply of the very seasonally scented Winter Candles, then we'll switch back to my all time favourite candle EVER...cassis. Fabulous. One for every room please, with an extra few.

And while we talking www.thewhitecompany.com they have these fantabulous cashmere cable knit socks that I just have to have to keep my tootsies (toes) warm through winter.

And while we're talking warmth, how about this hard working travel set that I would undoubtedly use as much as humanly possible..reduced to a much more wallet friendly $150 at www. cashmereboutique.com A fabulously soft and warm cashmere blanket, eyemask and cushion cover...it might take me a while before I can afford to turn left when I step onboard but this will be a very nice way to trick my body into the illusion of luxury.

Something else that's popped up on my horizon, a bit of a reworked blast from the past ...anything with the classic Ianthe print from www.liberty.co.uk Like this fabulous cushion for £22.50.

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And while you're in www.liberty.co.uk I'd love the classic Ianthe print silk coin purse too. £24.50.

www.smythson.com is the ultimate in premium quality leather accessories so how about a piece of that premium finery to house my jewellery collection. And yes, I'm loving this in the bright pink. $530.

And while you're dropping some major moolah in www.smythson.com I'd love the new Panama Diary in fuchsia croc as well. I get myself one every year but would be quite nice if beat me to it this year....thank you!

And what's a jewellery box without a fabulous piece of jewellery tucked away inside it. I'm in all types of love with these origami inspired earrings from Tracy Matthews, reduced from $185 t $68...fabulous.

Santa, santa, santa...I've had my eye on this table for AGES...and I still love it just as much as I did the first time I saw it. £385 requires some thought though. Its from www.grahamandgreen.co.uk and its an ancient Indian technique native to Rajasthan I think. No matter, love it. Want it. Thanks.

I know I really don't need any more bags but this one is so cute! From www.urbanoutfitters.com $28. Love it.

And most of all Santa, I'd love to see justice served to my Mac-napper. Something in the form of a freakish ma;function that gives them an electric shock. Not a shock big enough to kill them, not need for that over Xmas, but enough to scare the bee-jesus out of them...so they don't try to nick any more macs.

The Hotness - Victoria Beckham's Dress Collection

2008-12-17T17:38:00.005Z

Ho hum.

That was pretty much my reaction when I heard Vicky B was launching her own line of dresses.

But it seems the collection has the fashion cognoscenti all ruffled under their collars. The collection garnered rave reviews at New York fashion week and to maximise exclusivity in the best way possible, the initial production run was limited to just 400 dresses. Backed by the man that knows how to play the media like a piano, Simon Fuller, this looks to be a very successful and lucrative career move.

Selfridges had the UK exclusive and on the first day, there were only three dresses left unsold by 3pm. From late December/January, the dresses will also go on sale at Harrods, Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus.

The dresses start at around £1000 so clearly the credit crunch isn't crunching everybody!

If I'm entirely honest, I really don't see what all the fuss is about from looking at them. But then again with all the hidden corsetry on the inside, superior workmanship and premium quality fabrics, you probably have to try them on to really understand their beauty. (That's their story and they're sticking to it)

Dress No.1 is the Gavarnie Mirroire.

Dress No. 3 is the Minerve.

Here she is in the Frejus dress (Dress No. 4). Its a little too prim and proper for my liking but needless to say countless others have clamoured for it.

This is the Frejus, Dress No. 4 in all black, which is a MUCH better colourway in my opinion.

Dress No. 6, the Barbazan is definitely my favourite from the bunch. A simple strapless dress always works like magic for a formal evening out. The basket weave splattered with sequins adds a little oomph to a very simple and flattering style. (it looks like magic in white!)

Dress No. 7 is the Lombez and although its one of my favourites from the bunch, it doesn't look all that forgiving. But oh yes, the fabulous boning and corsetry on the inside....hmmm, still not that forgiving.

Proving the truth in the maxim, you are your own best PR, I love this dress the Bidart (Dress No.10). I doubt I'd wear it...but it looks fabulous. On Victoria Beckham.

Your thoughts?

The Hotness - Pump Action

2008-12-17T06:14:00.006Z

For what has got to be the first time in recent memory, flat shoes have made their way to the top of partywear footwear lists.

Flat shoes might seem to take some of the fun out of dressing up, but sometimes, just sometimes, its nice to have a little injection of comfort.

The party season is THE season for dressing up to the nines for no apparent reason so if you're going for flat shoes, make sure the rest of your outfit is the hotness. In my humble opinion, flat shoes by night work very well when worn with very short skirts and dresses. And they look better when work with tights too. It helps tone it down just a teeny weeny bit.

So a thigh skimming, barely covers your bum LBD or black sequinned mini, a bright pop of colour with the tights (www.tigerbites.blogspot.com/2008/11/bit-of-leg.html...and some spingly sparkly ballerinas. Cuteness.

And you just knew I'd say the more sparkly the better. Be the dancing queen in these fabulously sparkly little pieces of joy from
www.faith.co.uk £21.54

Or if you prefer you spingly sparkly shimmer and shine with a little more sophistication, go for these black ballerinas. BP Edie from www.nordstrom.com $49.95.

And why not take a delicate pirouette on the wild side with these calf hair leopard print ballerinas? Fabulous. www.nordstrom.com $49

Jewelled is the way forward. Love these. www.asos.com £15.

href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOTMu1Go__I/SUieKB8SchI/AAAAAAAAEIo/ChffymGiaNo/s1600-h/antik+batik+%C2%A380.jpg">
Oh my, these Antik Batik are very sophisticated aren't they? There's something about black suede that is so much more sexy than black leather n'est pas? www.asos.com £100 now down to £80.

And last but not least, a good dose of girlie fabulosity. Dolce Vita metallic pink leather ballerinas from www.nordstrom.com $69.95

All I Want For Xmas....is a perfectly wrapped pressie

2008-12-17T06:03:00.006Z

What's a great present without great packaging?

In fact, a rather mundane present becomes a great present with the right packaging.

So ladies, arm yourselves with some fabulous wrapping paper and bright proper satin ribbon...trust me, the gratitude will be amplified tenfold!

Even if its just a humble box of cookies for your building's caretaker, wrap it up nice and pretty.

A well wrapped gift implies a lot of time and effort.

If you can, find a great colour/print of wrapping paper you love and wrap all the presents you put under the tree in the same paper. Last year I found some fabulous black and gold damask paper for a steal at Old Navy and they all got a big pink bow. Very undeniably from me!

And in these credit crunch times, most stores are happy to do all the hard work for you if you don't have the necessary Blue Peter skills to wrap your gifts up in fabulosity.

Here are some of my favourite ideas for great packaging.

Ikea magazine boxes work like magic and are soooo cheap AND I can almost guarantee the recipient will find another use for the box. And if not, take it back (after they've opened the gift and stack your magazines up in them).

See? That Ikea magic comes in so many different colours. They come flat packed, all you have to do is pop 'em into shape and tie a big bow.

An unusual colour combo like this deep sexy chocolate brown with the big red bow just looks expensive doesn't it?

Coco Ribbon's signature packaging is instantly identifiable and never fails to put a big smile on the recipient's face.

Ikea have these fabulous, fabulous fabric covered storage boxes that are just magic for gifts. I have so many dotted around in different colours and sizes, magazines, computer cables, bangles (yes I have that many!). So especially if you use them for family members, discreetly swipe the box back after they've opened the gift!

Ikea again, what's not to love about the bargaintastic selection?

Or go for a very Christmassy red box with a simple satin or chiffon ribbon bow in white.

And finally onto the ribbon. You can get the best ribbon in my opinion at John Lewis in he UK or MJ Trim in America. Just pick out your signature colour/print for this Xmas and away you go. Double sided satin is the easiest to use as its glossy so looks all slick and expensive and easy enough for a 5 year old to tie.

Grosgrain ribbon looks very fancy but is a lot harder to tie nmeatly. Just make sure you start your battle armed with double sided tape and you'll eb fine.

You can see I really enjoy wrapping pressies can't you!

The Hotness....Hat Trick

2008-12-15T18:27:00.004Z

Hello Officer Franklin! I promised I'd say hello to you, make sure you keep reading on a regular basis!!!!!

My, my, my its cold out there isn't it?

Well if you're in Europe or most parts of America and weather.com is to be believed, you're freezing your extremities off.

One of the BEST ways to keep that extra little bit warm through winter is to wear a hat.

Seriously, we all lose 20-40% of body heat through our heads.

Now hats, in particular, fall into three categories. The good (i.e. cute), the bad and the fugly.

So dear reader, here's my selection of the good!

And at such fabulous prices, get more than one and switch them up depending on what you're wearing!

A bright pop of colour on your head is a good way to beat the winter blues. This little piece of cuteness is a bargaintastic $8.80
www. forever21.com

Or this boho luxe style multi coloured beret for £11.75 from www. asos.com

I love these baggy berets, supremely flattering on all face shapes and hair lengths. This one is shot through with sparkly threads of lurex. Fabulous. £7.83www. asos.com

This is the cutest snow bunny hat I've seen in ages! It looks so warm, I want one for the holidays now! By the fabulous hatmakers, Goorin Brothers, available from www. asos.comfor £19.

I love a bit of sparkly wool and this sequin covered beret from www. monsoon.co.uk/accessorize is right up my spingly sparkly street. £11.75.

This beret is very versatile as it goes with everything in a low key understated way. The eyelets add a little bit of interest to the style. www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk £14.

I love Snoods! A snood is this supercosy looking combo of a scarf and a hood. Perfect to keep your head and neck warm as no drafts have any hope of getting in. www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk £25 now £9.

For those of you who prefer a little badass to your style, I'm in all types of love with this Ted Baker Penney Trilby. From www. asos.com Was £45 now £30.

(and fyi, I'm always confused on the difference between a fedora and a trilby, wiki to the rescue!
A trilby hat (or simply trilby, originally Trilby hat) is a soft felt men's hat with a narrow brim, a deeply indented crown, and a pinch at the front.

A fedora is a soft felt hat that is creased lengthwise down the crown and pinched in the front on both sides. A trilby hat is somewhat similar to a fedora, but typically has a shorter brim, and the back of the brim is distinctively more sharply upturned as a result)

Okay, this is clearly not a winter hat but i have noticed there are A LOT of weddings this Xmas. So if you're going to one, forget the fascinator and go for this positively vampish, vixenish, undeniably sexy little chapeau from Claudette Chapeau on www. asos.com. I want one now.

All The Parents Want For Xmas Is...

2008-12-15T18:15:00.004Z

Okay, so the countdown to Xmas has officially begun.

9 days to go and no doubt many of you are fretting over what to get for whom within a reasonable price range.

As always, Tiger Bites is here to help with a selection of gifts. I have used most of my ideas myself in the past so I promise they will be well received!

The rents, what do you get the people in your life who gave you life yet have pretty much everything they want.

Make it thoughtful. It doesn't need to be expensive but it should definitely be thoughful.

So if you're travelling anywhere right before Xmas see if you can pick up a piece of local artwork.
Try and pick something your Mum will like (Mum's tend to be more picky than Dad's) and wrap it up nicely.

If you have the time and the budget, get it framed. Its an interesting gift, and likely to always be a conversation piece when they have people over. "Oh look at what my fabulous child got me when they went to xxxxx, how thoughtful are they?"

This is quite possibly the best gift you could give your parents. It doesn't have to be expensive but does require a bit of thought and time.

Find as many old pictures as you can of your family in a variety of places and at totally different points in time, put them together in chronological order in a really nice photo album. My Mum LOVED this present so much when I gave her one. I found pictures of her as a child, her brother as a kid, her parents when they were you and then lots of our baby pictures right through to now.

If you can't find many pictures, just take them to a print shop, get them enlarged and put a few in nice frames.

These frames would look great staggered on a wall. Maybe get all the pictures printed in black and white for a more interesting, artsy feel. $24.99 for 10 frames from www. target.com

A very pretty and very reasonably priced frame from Paperchase £12 on www. amazon.com

I'm so loving these Aspinal's of London albums. If Smythson ( www. smythson.com) prices are distinctly upper end, Aspinal's are comfortably middle bracket and therefore infinitely more affordable. This brown croc album is $179 from www. aspinalsoflondon.com

Another Aspinal's beauty reduced from $95 to $85 www. aspinalsoflondon.com

Another great option is a digital frame, ready uploaded with a selection of images (and batteries!).

The Hotness - Take a Leaf

2008-12-10T14:13:00.007Z

I'm definitely feeling the new very seasonal trend that's been creeping up on the horizon for accessories inspired by nature. And most specifically, the leaf.

These fabulous leaf inspired earrings are from California Hot new brand, Ateliette. A bargaintastic $20. Love it. I have a pair and they're fabulous, big earrings that are light as a feather, in 50 years time your ears will thank you for them.

Or how about this fantabulous pendant? Its a real leaf dipped in copper!
Regular readers know I love to give kudos to Etsy as and when I can. This pendant is by Elilu Designs or follow this link.....
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_2&listing_id=18486013
www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_2&listing_id=18486013

One of my favourite jewellery designers of all time is the short and wrinkly Kenneth Jay Lane, the guy just keeps churning out fashion finds. I'm loving this cuff and the best bit about a hinged cuff is you can wear it on your upper arm too when you feel like it. Nubian style.
www.shopbop.com

Song of The Day: Lady Gaga - Just Dance

Bright, Pretty and Quirky Party Shoes

2008-12-09T19:34:00.003Z

I've just found one of the most fantastic new shoe websites I've come across in a long time.

www.kitty-cooper.co.uk

Kitty Cooper Laura £240 now £120. You get a choice of three fabulously decadent brocade.

Kitty Cooper, Dina £235 now 115. You can choose from the luxurious looking dove blue silk satin, chesnut or wood smoke nubuck. And yes, they all come with that seriously hot pink heel.

Kitty Cooper, I love the Tamara for their quirky appeal. Cute and fun, quite possibly a bit more of a daytime shoe but it depends, as always where you're going. Is it just me or is the social arena awash with weddings this Xmas? If you're going to one, and intend to be the hotness, these shoes would work a treat. £230 now £115.

I'm in all types of love with the layout, look and photography on the site and they've even had the decency to put almost everything on sale...and that's on top of the VAT drop. The shoes are bright, pretty and quirky and are the perfect type of shoes to work by day, by night, by brunch, by lunch, by dinner.

And quite frankly in these hard economic times, while I do advocate buying less and buying better over the cheap nonsense that WILL fall apart from the cheap and cheerful retailers....you also need to make sure you putting your cash down for items that will work hard in your wardrobe.

The shoes are definitely very ladylike and a bit proper, but when you work your magic with the dress, the clutch, the gems.....you will be ....the hotness.

The Hotness - Party Clutch

2008-12-07T12:51:00.004Z

I'm a HUGE fan of a cute clutch. There's something about the sophisticated elegance of a cute clutch in the evening, whether you're wearing jeans or a slinky dress, a clutch is the perfect accessory for you look.

I've never been a big fan of Accessorize, a little too made in China looking for me!

BUT I have to say, I'm eating my words right as as even though these babies were undoubtedly made in China for peanuts, they're tooo cute!

I'm loving the 20s flapper style influence on the style of this clutch. The scalloped edges, the all over beading, the colour, the hotness. And only £17.40.

I'm loving the screen siren-esque glamour of this one. The minaudière (small hard cased ornamental case) is big news this Xmas and this one is f.a.b.u.l.o.u.s.

And with the VAT reduction, the prices are even more bargaintastic.

Take a look for yourselves www.monsoon.co.uk/icat/accessorize

The Hotness - Work to Play Outfit

2008-12-03T18:34:00.003Z

With the increased traffic and the rapidly increasing invitations, a lot fo women just don't have the time to go home and get changed before heading out to yet another hot party.

So this is where you need the perfect day to evening outfit.

And I'm in all types of love with this dress, from www.asos.com, down to £29.37

By day, wear it with cute ballet pumps, thick knit black tights and a chunky black cardigan if you're in wintery climes.

Faith Ayork £28.
If you're a tropical beauty, wear it with cute ballet pumps and a lightweight cardi.

Keep the jewellery to a minimum to keep your look fuss free.

By night, amp up your sex appeal with these glam glad inspired heels from Nine West.

Nine West Jamil Heels $89

Inge Christopher St Petersburg Clutch $230

Ateliette San Francisco Earrings $25

With this cute clutch and some fabulously seasonal earrings, a perhaps a wide gold cuff...and you dear reader, will be the office party hotness.

Enjoy.

xoxo

The Hotness - Ruffle My Feathers

2008-12-01T14:11:00.005Z

And as its the 1st December today and the official start of the party season, I'm giving you two pieces of fabulosity.

The black dress is timeless and classic in its sophiticated elegance. A great one or two or three will mean you ALWAYS have something to wear to that party you need to go to. Go wild with the accessories as how you choose to accessorise can totally transform your look.

Okay, I'm sure a lot of you look at this and think the ruffles add inches and have an unflattering way of making you look bigger all over. NOT TRUE! I just tried one on and not only did I fall in love with it as soon as it was on, it was supremely and surprisingly flattering giving a much more va-va-voom effect than expected. I'd recommend you stick to simple, bold colours to avoid looking too twee and work some serious magic with your accessories.

Take this simple but so damn sexy ruffled dress from Calvin Klein. $198....A price that makes it more of an investment classic LBD than disposable fashion. BUT with disposable fashion, just bear in mind that ultimately somebody pays the price. I'm not saying the more expensive the item the better, au contraire, I know enough about fashion and manufacturing to know that's certainly not the case (Louis Vuitton, please stand up). But I do wonder with that £5 dress, how much the underage, underfed workers got paid. Fair trade my ass.

So now that I've got your head round the numbers, lets get our heads round the accessories. The picture shows the dress in all in fabulous simplicity. Great. That's the best starting point.

Now picture yourself in it.
With your hair up in a messy ponytail.

Add some beaten gold earrings for a little ethnic je ne sais quoi (Monica Vinader £185)

And an erickson beamon style cuff for a bit of bad girl bling.

Throw on these fantabulous Christian Louboutin (yes, him again) Bretelle heels.

And bring on the colour riot with this fab purple alligator VBH clutch.

And where would the signature Tiger Tem style be without a quirky Bobby Dazzler? Loving this Alex Monroe Twig Citrine ring.

And dear reader, you would have gone from how pretty to gad-damn....she's the hotness.

Enjoy.

xx

The Hotness - One Shouldered Wonder

2008-12-01T13:58:00.003Z

The asymmetric strap has been hovering on the horizon for a while now.

They're so popular as they offer little more coverage and a more interesting neckline than strapless, they're a little more edgy and contemporary than spaghetti straps and halter necks and they're just undeniably sexy.

And interesting neckline always attracts attention to the wearer so get out your best strapless bras (sagginess and over exposure being the biggest fashion faux pas in my book), leave out the necklaces, don a chunky cuff and load up the superstar earrings....and you dear reader, will be .....the hotness.

I prefer strappy shoes with long dresses (the point being sophisticated elegance) and the chunkier clunkier platforms with cocktail dresses (the point being attention grabbing glamourpuss). So now you know.

Ok, so the $288 price tag on the ABS by Allen Schwartz dress isn't necessarily credit crunch friendly. I am an advocate of buy less and buy better. Instead of a wardrobe full of crap, focus on a few timeless key pieces that will hold up longer than some Primark nonsense.

BUT there are deals galore to make the most of this season. Retailers need you, and don't you forget that. So don't be afraid to bring out the Ijebu in you and haggle like a Moroccan Kasbah carpet seller. I just did that at a big department store for a fabulous dress and convinced them to go from 20% off to 40% off.....RESULT!

....Nothing to lose ladies, not even any shame in that game. If you succeed, share your stories please!

Enjoy.

The Hotness - To the Max

2008-11-27T18:36:00.003Z

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

For those that celebrate it I hope you all had a good one.

I had my new laptop stolen yesterday which sucks like hell. These things are so damn expensive to replace. And who really needs to dropa chunk of cash on a replacement laptop at Xmas....humph.

Anyway back to the hotness.

I´m in all types of love with this dress.

I love a good maxi dress for their ability to toe the line between glamour and laidback sophistication. They hide a multitude of sins and enhance all your best bits. They´re so easy to wear, easy to dress up or down and appropriate for virtually every genre of invitation that will be making its way into your life over the next few weeks.

This little baby is a credit crunch friendly $24.80 from Forever 21.

The monochrome colour palette keeps it sophisticated and sexy. The floral outline is seriously hot at the moment. Worn with strappy heels, some bigass earrings and a sexy little clutch...you mi amor, will be....the hotness.

The Countdown to Party Season Hotness Begins

2008-11-25T19:20:00.004Z

Hey people,

Apologies for the absence over the past week. Criss crossing across the world to be around in time for a new addition to the family. Everyone's well and the new bambino is gorgeous.

Back to fashion frivolity.

the festive season is well and truly upon us and I know the pressing issue when faced with so many fabulous invitations of what the hell to wear. So from now till Xmas (unless I stumble across something great I ahve to share) I'll be doing a series of posts called The Hotness...which will be the hottest pieces you can find out in the shops that need to be finding their way into your wardrobe, your lives and your party hotness.

Enjoy.

Up first, I'm in all types of love with this insanely slinky sexy waterfall dress from Warehouse. And at a credit crunch friendly price of 45GBP....make 'em green with envy ladies. (Oh and its far more flattering on than it looks in the picture..its skims not clings and quite frankly in pie eating season, that's what we like to hear).

Oh ok, a second one to really get you going. This insanely stylish embellished dress is a very merry 45GBP from one of my favourite sites www.asos.com. Love it.

Global Street Style - Buenos Aires

2008-11-14T00:55:00.008Z

So the next stop on the Tiger Bites world tour is Buenos Aires.

What do you think of when you think Argentina?

I think of huge ranches called Fincas, and these huge brooding insanely healthy looking horses, polo, steak, the blue-white-blue flag, female President Cristina Fernandez de Kirshner....not sure of her story but that surname does sound like one of those old money names. Aha, just checked, she's teh wife of their former president...I guess she managed to pul of what Hilary tried and failed to do. Nice job, keep that shizzle in the family. She is unfeasibly glamorous looking for a President....just an observation.

See what I mean?

Anyway, I think of Patagonia, Pampas...Eva Peron, and their most famous writer (I think) Jorge Luis Borges.

In terms of style I didn't know what to expect and must say it seems to be quite a mixed bag...

Jorge Williams....so dapper, so suave, quite possibly my favourite of the bunch.

Francisca, 32, Producer

Cinthia, 22, Model

Cata, 19, Design Student

Calu, 24, Art Student

Matias, 23, Student

Marina, 25, Art Director

Mariana, 31, DJ

Lucas, 26, Art Director....this dude, has kahunas of steel!

Julieta, 28, Graphic Designer

Olivia...12!!!!! WTF....when did 12 year olds start looking like this?! I hope its a typo and the chica is actually 21!

Nadia, 23, PR

Milagros Schmoll, 19, one of the best known new breed of Argentine models

Matias, 23, Student

Marina, 25, Art Director....

Take a look for yourself at
www. onthecornerstreetstyle.blogspot.com

Bringing Sexy Back

2008-11-13T05:18:00.005Z

A few months ago I decided I was going to keep celeb smut off this blog. Too tedious, too boring, too played out, too staged, and mostly TMI.

And I'm taking a leaf out of the Obama book, keep your focus 100% positive and positive will come back to you.

But every now and then I see something that I just HAVE to share.

The Wino...bringing sexy back with her unique cocktail of crack and smack.

images courtesy of The Blemish

Global Street Style - Japan

2008-11-12T00:41:00.004Z

This week on Tiger Bites we're going to take a look at global street style from a selection of the best style spotting blogs around the world.

First up is a Japanese site www.style-arena.jp

I've been a little obsessed with all things Japanese since I tried to learn Japanese at school. Yes really. When I got to Sixth form at CLC, I lobbied to get a Japanese teacher in to teach Japanese. My selling point being (at the ripe old age of mouthy 16) the world is becoming an increasingly global playing field and how cool would it be to have this high flying black female exec that can speak Japanese.

While my pleas, were listened to, alas I didn't get my way. Seems nobody else that year wanted to learn Japanese. Humph.

Japanese speaking inabilities aside,

I love Manga and anime,
The look and vibe of Tokyo street life has always fascinated me.
Those pod hotels...probably my biggest nightmare but they look fab.
Harajuku girls with their kooky, quirky sense of style.

The superstrong, unique economy (second largest economy by nominal GDP and third most powerful on purchasing power) has always been a source of interest...you know that whole 'Big in Japan" thing that can make people who can't sell one unit elsewhere but miraculously sell hundreds of thousands.... .Jennifer Love Hewitt's album? Yeah, exactly. Samantha Thavasa that has utilised the celebrity power of Beyonce, Tinsley Mortimer and Paris & Nicky Hilton to launch their own collections of handbags under her name. Smart move. They literally sell out every time.

Lost in Translation showed mainstream pop culture a new slant on Japan. Loved that film.
I love Japanese Tea Houses.
I love sushi and I love 'proper' Japanese food...the glutinous rice, the pickled ginger, the teriyaki, kumquats, shiitake mushrooms, soba, udon, wakame, nori...(let me stop before someone who really knows Japanese food shatters my bubble by telling me that's all pop Japanese stuff).

So courtesy of

Lets see what's hot on the streets of Harajuku this week...the overall vibe seems very laidback and a little eccentric. Love it.

I see they're loving the bright tights too.

And from the streets of Shibuya...seems a little more preppy, proper and has an understated sexiness to it.

And from the streets of Ginza...I'm guessing this is the 'City' as they all look a bit work-ish, as in serious high powered jobs work-ish...and is it me or are they more than just a little bit Cashmere Mafia? Love it.

Still Riding Obama-rama

2008-11-09T22:31:00.001Z

Yep people, I'm still in the thick of the Obama-rama.

Just found out these stats and decided to share.

They definitely make for interesting reading.

Voters in the 18 to 24 age group broke 68 percent for Obama to 30 percent for John McCain, according to the exit polling. Those in the 25 to 29 age bracket went 69 percent to 29 percent in Obama's favor.

The only age group where McCain prevailed was 65 and over, and that by just a 10-percentage-point margin, 54 percent to 44 percent, the exit polls showed.

And minorities went heavily into the Obama camp. Blacks, 96 percent Obama to 3 percent McCain; Latinos, 67 percent Obama to 30 percent McCain; and Asians, 63 percent Obama to 34 percent McCain.

And a little more info...

The closing polls were
Obama had 364 Electoral Votes which translates as 65 million Americans which was 53% of those who voted.

McCain had 163 Electoral Votes which translates as 57 million Americans which was 46% of those who voted.

Interesting.

And that breaks down to look like this:-
California it was 63% in favour of Obama
NY was 62% Obama
Illinois (home of Chicago) was 62% Obama

Utah (where?) was 63% McCain
Alaska (home of Palin) was 62% McCain.
Georgia (home of Atlanta) was 52% McCain,

Very interesting.

But look at this...

Based on Exit Polls

White Men (36% of voters) went 41% Obama, 57% McCain
White Women (39% of voters) went 46% Obama, 53% McCain
Black Men (5% of voters) went 95% Obama, 5% McCain
Black Women (7% of voters) went 96% Obama, 4% McCain
Latino Men (4% of voters) went 64% Obama, 33% McCain
Latino Women (2% of voters) went 68% Obama, 30% McCain.

Okay, I'll stop now!

Anya Hindmarch for Target

2008-11-06T22:29:00.014Z

Anya Hindmarch is quite possibly one of the best know bag designers. The London based designer saw great success with the launch of her Be A Bag line which involves printing one of your personal photos onto a canvas bag. Genius. People were lapping that stuff up and many a Hugo/Charlie/Ben/Will/Alex/Poppy/Lottie/Apple/Liberty found their baby pics immortalised on their Yummy Mummy's arm.

She started her first boutique on Walton Street at the tender age of 19, and now has a bag empire consisting of over 60 stand alone stores worldwide. And she's been designing those wash bags for BA First class for over 7 years. Now I know I haven't had that privilege since I became a full fare paying member of society and I know a lot of other people don't have that privilege anymore or just yet, but somehow EVERYBODY seems to have so many of those washbags kicking around at home. Interesting.

If you really want one for yourself, I'm sure you can find one for pennies on ebay otherwise, hop over the the BA retail site
www.highlifeshop.com where they are currently reduced from 65GBP to 19.80GBP.

In 2007 Hindmarch, in collaboration with the global social change movement We Are What We Do, designed the global sell out tote bag I’m Not A Plastic Bag, using her influence in a positive way to make it fashionable not to use plastic bags. The limited edition canvas totes sold for £5, launching in four limited edition colours around the world, and were selected by Vanity Fair to be included in their "Oscars" goodie bags.100,000 customers registered online to try to buy I’m Not A Plastic Bag, while 30 people in Beijing, China were treated in hospital after being caught in what was described as a scrum. AND the bags are still being traded on ebay for around $60+. Not bad.

And now she's set to become even more of a household name with her new collection for Target, the budget chain across America. www.target.com

Their sales pitch tell us...

"Timeless designs add the perfect polish. Anya's internationally acclaimed collections are worn by the world's top celebs.

Her trademark is her craftsmanship, sense of humour and knowing exactly what women want.

Her new designs for target give every woman the chance to see that for herself."

So let's have a look then shall we.....

Anya Hindmarch for Target Large Shoulder Bag $49.99

Anya Hindmarch for Target Large Python Shoulder Bag $49.99

Anya Hindmarch for Target Clutch $19.99

Anya Hindmarch for Target Tote in Black, Chocolate and Gold $49.99

Anya Hindmarch for Target Medium Python Satchel $44.99

Anya Hindmarch for Target Small Python Hobo $34.99

Anya Hindmarch for Target Small Flap Bag $29.99

Let me know your thoughts.

UPDATE:

For those in the UK that are interested. Ebay. Found some good options with fair prices, if you like them, just email the sellers and confirm shipping costs.

Enjoy

If for some reason, they're not working as links so just copy and paste.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220299887595

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=370104383282

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item= 120329470471

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item= 350115234918

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item= 350115251848

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item= 120329470471

Yes We Can...and YES WE DID!

2008-11-05T23:03:00.004Z

Ok, I'm lucky enough to be in America at the moment so yes I felt the FULL force of what happened yesterday and wow.

I've been trying to think of the best word to describe the general mood and sentiment in the air last night and jubilant is the best word for it. (And I must add, its not part of my normal vocab). But I was actually surprised at just how ecstatic and excited people were.

People were out on the streets, whooping with joy, shouting, screaming, fireworks and lots of general revelry. You could literally hear a collective cheer and roar across the city when it was announced that Barack Obama is the new President of the United States. I don't think I've ever seen anything like it so I'm so glad I was here to see that first hand.

His acceptance speech was made all the more powerful and moving by the fact that he was so calm and composed and humble. People all around me were transfixed, literally. Every bar/restaurant/shop you looked into, everyone was watching Obama. And people were tearing up just listening to him speak.

And Michelle...wowza, did you guys see that dress? And those bangles? And those earrings? Wowee. when last did any country have such a badass First Lady? Impressed. And it also just echoed their youth as well.

I'm very eager to see what happens next for America and Obama. I think people do need to bear in mind that America is knee deep in dire economic and political times. A situation which will not and cannot be resolved overnight. From watching he reaction of people, I wonder if they hope Obama is some kind of Messiah that will deliver America from evil by ending the war and 'fixing' the economy.

As is often the case with world leaders, we tend to get a much clearer idea of what they really did do and what they really didn't do after they leave office. And I strongly suspect the Bush Administration made a much bigger mess than we're all aware. And isn't it funny how the economy goes to pot in its more extreme form the month before the election. The problem with that is things in America could potentially get worse before they get better. I just hope people have enough foresight to be patience with the changes that will come.

BUT I think the US is in such dire straits economically and politically they could benefit from the popularity vote (in the eyes of the rest of the world) they will get with Obama. Regardless of whether its true or not, voting a young black man into office instead of a wrinkly old school war veteran indicates, change, progession and the promise of equality. Now that, to me was worth every single vote.

The fact that America now has a black President who is so intelligent, articulate, calm, composed and seems to possess the qualities of a true leader, shows that dreams can come true. Keep you eye on the prize, keep you eye on the time and run your race at your own pace. Focus your energy in the right way on the right things and you will get to where you want to go. Have faith in your vision, believe in your dreams.

I'll share one of my favourite quotes.
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt

We all just have to believe, strive and achieve...YES WE CAN and YES WE DID!!!!!

UPDATE!

And daaaaamn...was I the only woman who was like, OMG that dress, OMG, those earrings, OMG those bracelets...Michelle. I salute you. And FYI dress is Narciso Rodriguez who for me is one of my all time favourite understated designers.

See, me and Michelle, peas in a pod. POD!

The picture perfect husband, kids, her wardrobe....

OMG, I think I'm actually in love with that family.

OMG...I love them a little bit more!

OBAMA IS PRESIDENT

2008-11-05T04:34:00.002Z

This is a historic day for the WORLD.

America has just elected its first black president, Barack Obama is taking over the white house!

So black people, no more slacking off and "Is it cos I is black"...if a black man can be president of the United States, there's NOTHING you can't do.

YES WE CAN

and YES WE DID!

UPDATE!

And dayum...was I the only woman who was like, OMG that dress, OMG, those earrings, OMG those bracelets...Michelle. I salute you. And FYI dress is Narciso Rodriguez who for me is one of my all time favourite understated designers.

See, me and Michelle, peas in a pod. POD!

A Bit of Leg

2008-11-03T23:28:00.002Z

I can't believe it snowed it London last week!

Poor you if you were there, snow in October? Global Warming and its freakish weather conditions is real baby.

Winter clothes tend to be dark and dull but no need to let your inner style maven go on holiday until the sun comes out again.

I'm totally in love with the new trend for textured and coloured tights and leggings (I prefer tights to be honest but to each his own).

I've already looked at the latex leggings and the lace leggings so no need to revist that now. But if you want to....

Today my eyes are more on the candy coloured variety and the tantalisingly textured....that;s the thing with texture...you just want to touch it.

These are all available from and are fantastically priced at 5 GBP per pair. I've picked out some of my favourite colours, totally getting the bordeaux. They've got a really good selection so check out their site for some credit crunch friendly priced tights.

LEFT: www.asos.com Diesel Leggings 40GBP Ghetto or Fabulous?

CENTRE LEFT: www.asos.com Denim Leggings 25GBP..love these, the skinniest skinnies you can possibly find.

CENTRE RIGHT: Public Beware Lace Up Leggings 25GBP...cute lace up detail but obviously not boot friendly.

RIGHT: JET riding leggings from www.revolveclothing.com...hmm. Too many years at Cheltenham have left me with no interest in anything horsey.

And yes, these are all black but they've got that sexy texture going on.
LEFT: www.asos.com Diesel Printed Leggings 40GBP...and again I ask Ghetto or Fabulous?

CENTRE: Sass & Bide Rat's Tail leggings from www.revolveclothing.com $176 they're not cheap but I love the look. I'd have to see them on as all that texture might just magnify your pins and nobody wants that d they?

RIGHT: www.asos.com Emilio Cavallini pinstripe leggings 12GBP...Love these, in their understated sexy secretary way.

Your thoughts?

I See You Baby - Halloween (aka Good Girls Going Bad)

2008-10-31T05:07:00.009Z

“It’s a night when even a nice girl can dress like a dominatrix and still hold her head up the next morning,” Linda M. Scott, a professor of marketing at the University of Oxford in England, says in an article.

Well, seeing as that give you the free rein on letting your foxy bad girl out…who’s holding you back?

I’m feeling very inspired this Halloween and here are my top picks for who or what to dress up as.

To put you all in the festive spirit, here are some great pics of celebs all dressed up for Halloween

Not for the faint of heart or the thicker set body, but going as Catwoman is one hell of a way to make sure you're the life and soul of the party! Miaow!

P poppa Diddy Pop does his bit as a Centurion.

Audrina dresses up as a very 80s Madonna and Christina Milian makes a sexy little Marie Antoinette.

Christina Aguilera and her husband Jordan Bratman make a fabulous corpse bride and groom.

And clearly they're a couple that likes to dress up as here they are making a star turn as a sexy doctor and nurse. No end to the number of jokes there.

Teri hatcher and her daughter Emerson as Mary, Queen of Hearts and Alice In Wonderland.

Petra Nemcova makes a badass Cleopatra.

Liv Tyler brings some Marilyn magic to the party.

Ahoy there captain...John Legend looks a little too comfortable in his pirate get up. Booty jokes all night I'm sure.

And there's nothing like a good excuse to dress up to bring on a little gender bending. Jason Biggs makes a supercute Dorothy.

And now for some really really good costumes ideas...and remember...don't hold back!

This is my absolute favourite one for a couple. Bunny and Hef. So easy and so much fun. And anyone who's tried to convince their Mr to dress up knows how damn near impossible a task that is, but the beauty of Hef is the ease of the costume.

Betty Boop, cute, fun, sexy. Love it.

Blair Waldorf or Chuck Bass? Very easy to have fun with these outfits, this picture shoes you how to inject a little more naughty school girl into Blair's outfit to keep things on the humourous side.

Ugly Betty isn't a cute outfit but it is fun and its pretty easy too. Go all out with buck teeth and the biggest speccy four eyes you can get your hands on.

Dream Girls bring a little old school sexy to the party. Those dresses are so damn tight its a wonder they can walk and get yourself one of those retro 'set' hair styles and you're good to go. And 110% all woman.

Hallo my name is Inga, from Oktoberfest. Can I interest you in my jugs? Of beer.

She take my money....when I'm in need! I absolutely love this one. A true hardcore, unabashed gold digger. Make sure your hard hat has a functional torch on it to keep it fun and entertaining for you and help you dig out all those dollar dollar bills.

Or go as the ultimate Geisha Girl in this sexy get up. Sexy in that more covered up way.

In the words of Apache (remember him?), I need a gangsta, a gangsta bitch. Yeah, rock on wit yo bad mamma jamma self.

Officer Fisticuffs and Inmate Ben Dover. No end to the fun times to be had with this.

Heaven or Hell? Take your pick and make it rain on your party.

Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker....another relatively easy couple outfit.

Plug and Socket...a brilliant idea for a couple outfit!

Make like Flava Flav (why anyone would want to....) and be the p.i.m.p. of l.o.v.e.

Another fun couple outfit, you get to be a little sexy and all dark and gothic. So much fun to be had with hair and make up on this one. And you could probably make the outfit work with clothes you already have.

If you've already decided...make sure you share with the rest of us who you're going to dress up as.

Have a fun one!

OTK Boots...TKO or OTT?

2008-10-28T04:56:00.008Z

Another day, another new trend.

And this time its yet another spin on the increasingly enduringly popular...stripper chic.

http://tigerbites.blogspot.com/2008/08/stripper-chic.html

Over The Knee Boots...what do you think ladies? Yay or nay?

But before you jump to judge, take a quick look at these pictures.

Daisy Lowe and Alice Dellal both share a love for the Fendi suede OTK boots.

And here's my pick of the best boots around now.

Joie Dream Some Boots $475 from www.shopbop.com

Love these, somehow, for me this look works a hell of a lot better in suede and with a flat heel. Jeffrey Campbell Buck Boot $245 www.shopintuition.com

GoldenBleu Milo boots are ultraluxe with their supersoft Italian leather. Love them.

www.asos.com Leather and Suede OTK boots 75GBP.

American Retro Suede OTK boots 285GBP www.asos.com Loving the flat grey suede. I'm thinking worn with a nice warm poloneck and leggings this would definitely be wintersexy. (Wintersexy as opposed to Summersexy is a much harder look to work as you're inevitably wearing so many layers!)

Pour La Victoire Rena Cuffed OTK Boots $465 www.shopbop.com. For the most part I'd recommend avoiding the OTK boot with skirts and dresses. You're more likely to end up looking like the wrong kind of professional...but these soft grey suede flat boots could work with a jumperdress and opaque tights. See? Wintersexy.

Patrizia Pepe OTK Elastic Side Boots 395GBP www.yoox.com

Loeffler Randall have reworked their now classic boot shape on every variety possible...if it ain't broke. $825 from www.singer22.com

LD Turtle OTK boots put some swagger in your step. $785 from www.shopbop.com

KG from Kurt Geiger Platform OTK Boots 180 GBP www.kurtgeiger.com

These Jackets are the Bomb

2008-10-24T19:06:00.008+01:00

The bomber jacket has been on and off the radar with increased regularity since Gucci did a fabulous one a few years ago. I remember it very well as I loved it and it came in a fabulous bordeaux leather...alas it didn't make it into my wardrobe but my superstar Mum did get me a friggin fabulous cream one for Xmas a couple of years ago and with my tender loving care it still looks as good as new.

Which is handy as the bomber jacket is firmly back 'on'. Remember they look best when worn snug so leave the chunky jumpers out to avoid le michelin homme look.

Here's my pick of the best of the bunch.

These are all from the best shopping site in the UK www.asos.com
Interestingly enough I'm not the biggest fan of black leather but these are all pretty fabulous. I love the supersnug fit of the Ted Baker, love the pintucked detail of the ASOS jacket and at such a great price you can't lose.
LEFT: Ted Baker Big Collar Jacket 295GBP
CENTRE: ASOS pintucked leather jacket 85GBP
RIGHT: Oasis jacket 140GBP.

A lightweight alternative to the leather biker jacket, this cotton jacket from BB dakota in pale grey is a good everyday jacket.
www.tobi.com

This Wrangler jacket has a lived in look and its quite possibly one of my favourite shades of brown. Let's call it butterscotch caramel...sounds great doesn't it?
www.asos.com 225GBP

www.asos.com Firetrap Big Collar Bomber Jacket 295GBP, white and off white add a touch of glamour to a decidedly understated look.

The yummy reddish brown colour on this retro style bomber jacket is what makes this look fabulous. And expensive.
www.nordstrom.com $395.

www.asos.com At 85GBP, asos are really coming up trumps with the leather jackets. This is a cute, sexy twist on the classic bomber shape, love it and love the colour.

Since they launched I've loved the name of this company...Young, Fabulous and Broke. Its the bright patterned lining that makes this black bomber truly fabulous. $370 www.revolveclothing.com

Members' Only has been revived for 2008 from their heyday in the 80s. This biker jacket is a classic colour and cut and a good alternative to the bomber shape.
www.membersonlystyle.com $768.

This is another non-leather bomber jacket from Hinge. Great colour, great cut, great price. $98 www.nordstrom.com

And lets end for the weekend on a cheap and cheerful note. www.forever21.com never leave you in a fashion rut and this little jacket is supercute with a supercute price...$19!!!

Have a good weekend

xxx

Guilt Free Gilt

2008-10-21T21:24:00.004+01:00

Ok ladies, there's a tightly kept secret I'm about to share with you.

We all know about sample sales, the best part being the insanely low prices, the worst part being the possessed pushy grabby women competing with your possessed pushy and grabby self for those to die for rock bottom priced, high end designer shoes.

Well, for people with a US address at least, that is set to end as a I'm about to let you know how to bypass the queues.

Gilt.

And we're talking golden names like Valentino, Chloe, as well as more contemporary names like Twenty8 Twelve, Catherine Malandrino, Botkier, Gryson, Sergio Rossi, Delman, Alice Temperley, James Perse, Me & Ro, Vera Wang, Marc Jacobs, Cynthia Rowley, Acne Jeans, Vivienne Tam, Missoni, lambertson Truex....need more?

Oscar De La Renta, Rachel Leigh, Malo, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent...ok I'll stop.

The Gilt Groupe provides access, by invitation only to men's women's and children's coveted fashion and luxury brands at up to 70% off retail. And they really know how to keep the shoppers moving as any item placed in your shopping basket stays for 5 minutes unless you checkout. If you don't checkout within 5 minutes its released back into the pool for another shopsavvy piranha. The better he price and brand, the faster the stuff moves and I remember a few months ago they had these fabulous Marchesa dresses reduced from $600-$1500 down to $50-400. They all pretty much sold out while I was trying to work out which one I liked!

Just so you know, handbags fly. The bonus being a handbag is always the right size, unlike a dress or a pair of trousers.

And now I'm happy to share the love and pass on some invites (for a limited time only! so sign up fast!)

Just click this link

http://www.gilt.com/invite/tigerbites

and you're just minutes away from guilt free gilt.

Please note, you can only sign up with a US address so if you don't have one, I'm going to do a post next week on a new UK based sample sale site.

Happy Shopping Ladies as believe me when I say Xmas has come early.

xxxx

I See You baby...if you like it then you should have...

2008-10-19T03:27:00.001+01:00

If you like it then you should have put a ring on it.

Expect that to be an anthem by Xmas.

Beyonce worked her magic for that $5 million dollar rock....watch and learn ladies.

I See You Baby....uncanny inspiration

2008-10-19T03:25:00.003+01:00

Watch the Beyonce video, then watch this. Hilarious!

I See You Baby

2008-10-19T03:10:00.001+01:00

This week I see Jazmine Sullivan killing it on this song.

Jazmine is the new Missy protegee from Philly, she's only 21 and has some serious pipes in her.

Bust Your Windows to me is like the 2008 version of Kelis's classic I Hate You So Much Right Now. Definitely a bit of a girl power anthem via the man bashing route. J Records probably should have put up a bit more cash for a better video but c'est la vie.

Would I bust windows? Probably not, would probably end up hurting myself more than the perpetrator...but then again, they don't call me Tiger for nothing.

The Great Coat Debate

2008-10-14T18:00:00.010+01:00

Hey people,

Sorry the posts have been a little sporadic, work and life has been a little hectic.

So onto my next topic du jour, the great coat. Every year, as the temperatures start dropping I find my eyes drawn to the fantastic selection of great coats around.

I love coats and cute jackets, I quite possibly have too many, but where's the fun in shopping without happily ignoring excess?

THE SHORT BLACK COAT

Left: ASOS Extreme Funnel Neck 60GBP http://www.asos.com
Centre: ABS double breasted wool coat $400 now $160 http://www. smartbargains.com
Right: Long Tall Sally Kimono Sleeve Coat 85GBP http://www.asos.com

Sometimes when you're busy a full length coat just kinda gets in the way. These short black coats are the perfect everyday winter coat. They go with everything, the work by day and by night and they're easy to dress up or down.

Whether you go for the funnel neck (perfect for keeping extra warm) or the peacoat inspired ABS with swing sleeves or the LongTallSally (fabulous brand for taller women) kimono sleeve, you'll be looking seriously stylish in your anything but boring black coat.

STYLISH NEUTRALS

If you want a change from boring black and want to stick to something smart and stylish, opt for the camel-beige-tan colour spectrum.
LEFT: Asos funnel neck frill edge 70GBP http://www.asos.com
CENTRE: Victoria's Secret VIA Double Breasted Coat $148 now $128 http://www. victoriassecret.com
RIGHT: French Connection Wool Mix Mohair Belted Jacket 130GBP http://www.asos.com
Again, this is a selection of stylish twists on a staple classic coat.

WINTER WHITES
Whoever says you're not supposed to wear white in winter, just doesn't know how to wear it! I love winter white and I think worn well it can look supremely stylish. The smart funnel neck of the McQ jacket or the oversize collar on the Ben Sherman are both fab places to start looking.

LEFT: Ben Sherman coat $229 http://www. urbanoutfitters.com
RIGHT: Mcq by Alexander McQueen funnel neck jacket $545 http://www.net-a-porter.com

GORGEOUS GREYS
Grey is another fabulous colour for a coat. Go light or dark depending on your preference but it acts as a neutral as it goes with everything.

LEFT: Victoria's Secret Ruffle Hem Coat $168 http://www. victoriassecret.com
CENTRE: Mcq double breasted frock coat 500gbp http://www.asos.com
RIGHT: ASOS bustle back trench 60gbp http://www.asos.com

BRIGHT POPS OF COLOUR - TRUE BLUE

This shade of bright blue is a perfect shade for winter, It works with jeans, black and looks great in the evening too. Definitely not for the shy and retiring but it is a fabulously retro inspired quirky hue.
LEFT: Old Navy Pique Wool Blend Coat in Siberian Blue $89 http://www.oldnavy.com
RIGHT: J Crew Double Cloth Tulip Coat $330 http://www.jcrew.com

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

I'm a big fan of the little red riding hood come winter. I love a great red coat. As with the black or camel coat, just make sure you choose one that's the best quality that you can afford.
LEFT: Asos Ringspun kimono coat 95gbp http://www.asos.com
RIGHT: J Crew stadium cloth bridget coat $365 http://www.jcrew.com

PURPLE REIGN

I love purple and I love a great purple coat and man oh man, I think i might just need this J Crew coat. That shade of purple is so divinely stylish and regal...love it.
LEFT: Urban Outfitters Florrie Coat $108 http://www. urbanoutfitters.com
CENTRE: J Crew double cloth lady coat $330 http://www.jcrew.com
RIGHT: Soia & Kyo coat $360 http://www. bloomingdales.com

GREEN WITH ENVY

Ok, I've been permanently scarred against green coats from wearing our school uniform coats for 7 years...but its been just about long enough now since I had to be a 'GreenFly' to appreciate a nice green coat.
LEFT: Tulle Cypress Coat $89 now 49 http://www. nordstrom.com
RIGHT: Victoria's Secret Classic Wool Twill Coat $138 now 119 http://www. victoriassecret.com

TWEED
Tweed is another great love of mine when it comes to winter coats and these two manage to pull off the understated moneyed look that I love about tweed.

LEFT: Asos Miss Sixty tweed a line coat 230gbp http://www.asos.com
RIGHT: DKNY Ruffle Front Wool Blend Coat $300 now 144 http://www. overstock.com

I See You Baby.....

2008-10-09T05:39:00.003+01:00

Another week...another fabulously inspired selection of images.

I See You Baby

Enjoy.
xxx

Eve and Joy Bryant bring the fierceness to Hip Hop Honours Awards.
Love the silhouette Eve creates with the crop jacket, long sparkly top and those sexy as hell latex leggings...whose got a pair yet?

And Joy is always a joy when she steps out.

Jada, jada, jada. A mother of two and well into her forties now isn't she? Let that be inspiration to us all.

And speaking of Hot Mamas...Halle Berry is working her berryful magic in this Cavalli dress with her Giuseppe Zanotti shoes. Love it. And again, I'm seriously inspired....one can only hope to look this good after popping a beanie or two.

Molly Sims swans down the red carpet looking positively regal and a little bridal in this fab dress.

Anne Hathaway has been stepping it up in the style stakes since her ex was sprung with some possible jailtime in singsing....while it all has a distinct whiff of eau de publicity stunt, I'm not hating on the Marchesa dress. Love it.

Becki Newton putting some of her hard learnt Ugly Betty style tips to use in this bright cobalt Zac Posen silk prom dress which she toughens up with some seriously sexy shooboots and a studded Gucci clutch.

Beyonce giving us some I'm-a-married-woman-now-so-must-cover-up style in this diaphonous red gown. She makes it work. Against all odds.

And Kerry Washinton is giving us some diaphonous gown action on the red carpet too. Anyone seen her new flick yet? Any good?

CLaudia always has a slightly spaced out vibe (ain't coke grand) but I'm loving the old school glamour combination of camel cashmere, leopard print and black reworked in a distinctly 2008 way.

I think the Gossip Girl girlies have been calling in the stylists and raiding the shops as they just keep strutting out at events looking better and better. Love this sexy flirty cool prom dress on Jessica Szohr. And please will they just stop trying to make the Vanessa-Nate thing happen. It won't.

See what I mean? Gossip Girl Girlies...fierce. Leighton is Queen B of the style pack. Love the Brian Reyes dress on her.

J Hud in a mighty fine Tadashi LBD. Love it, love the hair, love the Neil Lane rocks.

While I'll be the first to say just because you know how to turn out great style, is no grounds for becoming a designer...but I'm kind of looking forward to seeing Rachel Bilson's Edie Rose for DKNY line as she's rocking here.

And last but by no means least, Katy Perry in a Dior dress. Looking fab.

p.s. big thank you to Swank Heights for the heads up on image size!

To Shooboot or not to Shooboot?

2008-10-08T06:41:00.007+01:00

I love a new season and the new wardrobe additions we deem mandatory.

Next up on my list is the much coveted perfect shooboot.

They have a stylish versatility that makes them suitable for most climates buts I would say if you find yourself on warmer regions as the temperature drops elsewhere, if you're going to shooboot, go for one of those superstrappy options. There's always something a little strange about girls in tropical climates on boots.

For everyone else, the only question is....how's a girl to choose which shooboots for you?

Arturo Chiang's options are a fabulously wearable shade of grey (which is the colour for the season) and a bargaintastic $160.
http://www.overstock.com

Belle by Sigerson Morrison is an astoudingly popular offshoot of the main Sigerson Morrison line and these gorgeous $379 taupe suede shooboots are a must. I'm loving the cutaway side, perfect for skinny jeans or leggings. And yep, I love beige with black.

There's somethinga bout this mossy green that just screams Autumn! Cute boots from Chloe $585
http://www.net-a-porter.com

Ok, these aren't strictly speaking shooboots, but almost. And I love them and for $24.....the only question is which colour?
http://www.forever21.com

Gabriella Rocha is a new name to me but the hardware, colour, winged detail and slick design caught my eye. Love them. $119 from http://www.zappos.com

Or how about these L.A.M.B. Shooboots for a bold pop of colour? $429 from http://www.eluxury.com

Its the tinyiest touch of blue on these patent Marc by Marc Jacobs shooboots that really makes them stand out in the understated glamour. $455 from http://www.net-a-porter.com

Its taken a while for the Oxford Brogue inspired shoe to grow on me, and grow on me it has. I'm sure I'd pick a pair less serious than these black patent ones....but they are rather fab. Mia $470 from http://www.zappos.com

You see that skinny high, slightly curved heel on these? Love. Miu Miu $640 from http://www.saks.com

Loving the lace details on these Nine West Shooboots and at a bargaintastic $109, its an easy and effective way to rock the shooboot and lace trend with one key piece you're bound to wear to death.
http://www.ninewest.com

Peeptoes with a seriously boho luxe twist, these Sam Edelman shooboots are very very on trend. $169 from http://www.nordstrom.com

If I was going to pick one pair out of the bunch I think it might just be these. I love the way the black suede is all scrunched up on one side...fabulousness. Best worn with s pair of unbreathably tight skinnies or shiny leggings. Midory $149 from http://www.stevemadden.com

I've got a serious LoveJones for this brand. The shoes are just so unusual looking and these silver ones are a little space-agey, but worn with an all black ensemble, they'd look even more fab. 150GBP http://www.unitednude.com

Love, love, love these. The flattish heel makes them a great daytime option and I love the colour too. Jeffrey Campbell $78 http://www.urbanoutfitters.com

Steve Madden does it again...tropical climate women, this is the type that works for you. $120http://www.stevemadden.com

Heavy Metal

2008-10-04T23:45:00.005+01:00

We are well in the throes of gold fever, its the hottest colour for accessories, yet there's a strong leaning towards the dark gothic punk rock look (as favoured by Princess Riri).

Which makes me think...how's a girl to choose? Gold or Silver?

Your thoughts.

WRIST ACTION

GIVING THE FINGER

SHOOTING HOOPS

The Truth About Diamonds

2008-10-04T18:01:00.004+01:00

I love diamonds as much as the next girl, but watching Blood Diamonds did definitely make me think twice about how we get what we love.

This picture just reminded me of the big kahuna Djimon Honsou's character had.

Bey flosses her $5 million rock at the beach....what do you think? Is it beach appropriate? Seeing as she needed to be flanked by 5 burly security guards to wear it?

Tiger Digs Deep

2008-10-02T03:52:00.004+01:00

Today is Nigeri'a Independence Day. Which I must confess would normally go unnoticed but there are two topics regarding Nigeria that are hotting up on the news.

1. The issue of Nigerians calling for a boycott of British Airways (yeah I read about this after my rant about them last week).

www.tigerbites.blogspot.com/2008/09/name-and-shame

It seems the story has been in circulation for a while but must have missed it. Here's the link but I'll discuss this another day.

www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/nigerians-call-for-boycott-of-ba-after-deportation-812649.html

But the story that caught my eye today is about a consortium of Nigerian entrepreneurs that are putting in a bid to buy Newcastle FC.

www.africa.reuters.com/country/NG/news/usnLQ472362.html

Chris Nathaniel, a London-based businessman who runs football and entertainment consultancy NVA Management, said four Nigerian entrepreneurs were ready to put up the cash to buy the club and that their bid was being finalised.

"We're at the stage now where our end are doing the relevant security checks on the individuals who have the money," Nathaniel, who is coordinating the bid, told Reuters.

"We have a lawyer here who is doing those checks before finally submitting a bid to Newcastle," he said by telephone.

Nigerian media reports have said the consortium -- whose members remain a closely guarded secret -- have come up with 350 million pounds ($645 million) so far but want to find an additional 100-150 million to secure the deal.

Nathaniel said that until the British lawyers had finalised their checks and drawn up the paperwork, it was difficult to say exactly how much money had been put forward.

"We don't know is the honest answer. We're not going to know that until it's lodged with the lawyers here," he said.

"I've been told the money is there in Nigeria but I need to see evidence of it here before we can present it to the club."

I've just been reading about this, and reading people's responses to the topic. The general consensus seems very mixed.

So over to you reader.

Share your thoughts.

Absolutely Shagadelic

2008-10-01T00:32:00.005+01:00

I'm in all types of love with a new trend on the horizon.

Its handy for keeping warm as the temperature drops, and its the latest look in Boho Luxe.

The fur gilet has been a long time love of mine and while I'm not fighting for animal rights (I'd rather spend that time fighting for people's rights)...there's something about real fur that ain't too kosher in 2008. Depends where you live as to how likely you are to get pelted with paint from some PETA person, so spare yourself the hassle and go faux. And yes, this is probably the only time I'll advocate going faux.

Its Gucci and you know they don't give a f*** about animals, or probably people. But this is one of the key looks of the season that spawned this trend.

Cassie looking fabulous in that Elizabeth & James Monkey fur gilet. Ok yes it looks fabulous but damn, I'm not down with having monkey draped on me!

This fab casually sexy little gilet is by BB Dakota and its the perfect everyday gilet. Kill 3 birds with one item, tartan/plaid/check, fur (hood) and its a gilet. Love it. Love that fur hood.

Kate Moss working her magic for her TopShop line in this fab photo. Its her Yeti coat which keeps selling out apparently. Looks like a fabulous portable blanket. In a cute way.

Next? I kid you not. This absolutely fabulous looking (I'd need to see it up close and personal) gilet is from next only 45 squid...not bad.

Pri-mygoodness. Primark are really stepping up their game in their total domination of the cheap and cheerful market. This is only 18 GBP (new laptop can't find the pound key) so its an easy way to dip your toe in the fur gilet trend.

Princess Riri doing what she does best, getting papped out and about looking fabulous. LOVE her gilet.

This supercute outfit is y Sweetface, J-Lo's not very talked about fashion line. Its a cute take on the casually sexy laidback everyday style of the chick from the BX. Love it.

And here are some of my takes on how to work the fur gilet to maximum effect.

Peacock Faux Fur Gilet 18GBP
Miss Sixty Knit Dress 75GBP
Dolce & Gabbana Raquel Shopper $795
Chinese Laundry 'Tahoe' boots $99

Cecil McBee Faux Fur Gilet
Forever 21 blouse $20
Frankie B Heart Cords $110
Nook & Willow weave slouch bag 420GBP
Steve Madden Merritt Shooboots $139

Primark Faux Fur Gilet 18GBP
3.1 Philip Lim Paisley Print Dress $695
Jeffrey Campbell Belinda Boots $159
Susannah Hunter Overnight Bag 770GBP

ASOS Fur Bolero 35GBP
Iisli Cashmere Butterfly Top (from Ebay)
Level 99 Chloe Straight Leg Jeans $106
Angel Jackson handbag 184GBP
Steve Madden Midory Shooboots $149

Peacock Faux Fur Gilet 18GBP
Express Chiffon Top $60
Sass & Bide Rats Leggings $176
United Nude Boots 150GBP
Botkier Cairo Bag $410
Charles & David clutch $165

Which is your favourite absolutely shagadelic look?

Recession Cut Backs?

2008-09-29T09:15:00.002+01:00

I know we're in the midst of a global recession and companies worldwide have taken to extreme measures to cut back on costs....but chopping off the heel?

Name and Shame

2008-09-27T06:31:00.002+01:00

I'm a big believer in manners.

Smile, remember your P's and Q's, treat people with basic human respect and a little kindness.

We can all be so quick to forget to treat people how we'd like to be treated.

Which brings me to my topic of today (which I need you all to participate in)...the Name and Shame.

Certain places, be they shops, restaurants, bars, airlines, hotels where you feel you were on the receiving end of bad customer service. Name and Shame them readers.

The world is just too competitive when it comes to businesses who want to take our money to tolerate bad customer service so readers, I invite you to Name and Shame.

1. TIFFANY
Before I launch into my tirade I will say they would score 100% on my prat-meter if it wasn't for a really nice sales woman upstairs and a very kind salesman downstairs. They showed me what good customer service is all about.

I was given a gift from Tiffany which was beautiful but it was too big so I took it in to swap it for a similar item of a smaller size.

So I happily took my time looking at their website to whittle down my alternative options to one or two items. So happy with my choices, I popped into their store.

Doorman was great, very polite. All smiles and hello madam, how are you today.

I was happily walking around seeing what caught my eye, this year I've been developing a rather unhealthy obsession with jewellery and I'm pretty well informed on what's what.

My eye focuses on a small wonder and when I asked the price the salesman literally sniffed as he told me.
The sniff didn't go un-noticed. He got 'a look' but I'm not quick to anger. So I give it back and move along.

Upstairs, a really lovely saleswoman attended to me. She was young, pretty and very helpful.
I saw one of the options I'd picked out online and couldn't find the other so I described it to her.
She wasn't sure so she asked one of her superiors who turned out to be a really ITK (I Too Know aka Know-it-all) crochety old Chinese man.

ITK man proceeded to say they didn't have what I described and maybe I'd looked on a fake Tiffany site.

Me: Fake Tiffany site?
(you think I'm bootleg because I'm black when quite frankly China has the intellectual property rights on bootleg)

ITK: Yes madam, there are some fake websites pretending to be Tiffany but they're not.
Me: Ok, but I think I can safely assume www.tiffany.com is your company.
ITK: Oh you can't be too sure, people get confused all the time.
Me: I'm pretty comfortable using computers so I pretty sure I looked at the right site.
(I move away before I feel compelled to reach over the counter and slap the old man).
ITK: Oh but we don't have what you're describing so you must have been looking in the wrong place.
Me: Ok thanks. (walk away and back to the saleswoman who was helping me in the first place).

I ask her to check on the computer system, she mentions it might be downstairs but starts looking through the company website. I show her how I searched for my items and she happily obliged.

And horror of horrors....we can't find it.

Then young ITK in a slick suit sticks his head over and says to sales woman quietly, we don't have what she's looking for.
To her credit, she ignores him. I ignore him. He moves away.

I ask her to search a different way and I'm getting increasingly irritated as old Chinese man ITK keeps coming over as if to prove I'm wrong. Now anyone who knows me knows
a. I'm always right
b. I've got a pretty good memory and
c. I'm pretty comfortable with computers

So having this old ITK dude who I'm sure has never looked at the company website telling me I don't know what I'm talking about, when I know what I saw this morning, is firmly pressing my buttons.

He moves away and like magic, the woman says, is this what you're looking for?
Bingo. Right name, right category, right price.

So she takes be back downstairs as that's where they have what I was looking for, hands me over to a really nice, supersweet old guy who happily helps me. They're closing by this point but he's so polite about it. Initially he thought they didn't have the right size. But he checked the stock room. Came back out, checked the stock list on the computer, went back to the stockroom and got me EXACTLY what I'd seen on their website and it was EXACTLY what I wanted.

The sales woman who helped me upstairs is leaving the building just as I get to the door and she sees the bag in my hand and asks me if I found what i was looking for, I say I did, thank her and she apologises for any 'confusion upstairs'. Its in our exchanged smiles that we both know exactly who 'confusion' was.

2. BRITISH AIRWAYS
I can't remember any particular incidents as I stopped flying with them years ago.
I think it might be something to do with the way they treat passengers flying to Lagos at Xmas. Insane.
They're rude, they're snotty and their service is crap.
They offer crap airmiles and they can't even begin to strike a match to the burning inferno that is Virgin Atlantic.
I've been flying with Virgin for about 5 years and they've never done me wrong. I LOVE that airline.
So many times they've gone over and above the call of duty. The staff at check in are always friendly, happy and helpful and early or late, you're treated like the full fare paying passenger you are.
BA could get away with their crap service while they had the monopoly on Nigeria but then Virgin Atlantic swooped in to claim their share. Egg on your face BA.

3. LLOYDs BANK
Again, I can't remember what they did that pissed me off so much.
It was in my first year of uni.
I'm one of those people, when I love a place/airline/hotel/whatever...I'll tell everyone about it.
If I hate a place/airline/hotel/whatever...I'll tell everyone about it.
If I don't love or hate it, its too mediocre to be memorable.

So when Lloyd's Customer Services pissed me off, my 18 year old self politely told the woman on the phone that I'd be closing my account as soon as I could get to the nearest branch today and I explained to her that while they might not have much respect for the students of today, we'll be the millionaires of tomorrow. Then I explained that HSBC have been like champions and I'm going to advise all my friends with Lloyds accounts to switch to HSBC as their customer service is by far superior.
I think I managed to recruit about 5 people for HSBC so not that you care, but egg on your face Lloyds.

So readers, join in the fun...NAME AND SHAME!

Gunning For Fashion Gold

2008-09-25T03:44:00.007+01:00

Abuja...the big city of dreams, where the real money in Lagos lies.

Its not a city I've spent much time in, but from the little I have seen I can safely say things in general work better, look a bit better and feel a bit better.

And that was my opinion before I came across what must surely be the most stylish looking boutique I've seen in Nigeria.

You know how some businesses make a cacophony of noise when they burst on the scene, only to die a very quiet and quick death.

And then some businesses, make a quiet entry. The people in the know are the first to know about it. They all simultaneously fall in love with it, the way you can fall in love with something when its new, unchartered territory, and quite frankly you got there first.

D BOUTIQUE definitely falls into the latter category.

Slowly but surely D BOUTIQUE has been creating a quiet revolution in the way the moneyed women in Abuja shop.

The grand entrance, more in line with the style of an important political arena, lets you know you're about to enter something new, something special and something...expensive.

D BOUTIQUE is slick, stylish, sexy and expensive, just like its owner and just like its shoppers. With a look and feel that can best be compared to the 'fabulous lifestyles of the rich and shameless' calibre of boutiques on Melrose in LA. The decor has been kept simple but stylish, with a striking palette of black white and bright pink. Throw in a little bit of gilt on the mirrors, some glamorously gothic black crystal chandeliers, and a smattering of sparkly cushions and you have one decadent looking boutique. All this and we're not even onto the clothes yet.

In keeping with the laidback sexy aesthetic of LA, the style ethos of D BOUTIQUE is 'casual chic'. Each item in the store is presented with a specific purpose in and function in mind. Yummy mummy going to lunch, moneyed it girl out on a hot date, maverick fashionista hitting the clubs, high rollers looking good enough to eat...D BOUTIQUE has got you covered. No detail is overlooked in their bid to deliver the perfect garments to the most discerning fashion enthusiasts. D BOUTIQUE deliberately seeks out clothes and accessories that are individually designed, aiming for the high levels of quality attained best when things are made by hand.

Jaded By Knight's one of a kind, reworked vintage creations are one of LA's most reputable and cutting edge designers. Their choice of fabrics and avant-garde styles are intrinsically unique and ahead of the pack. Rawyalty tees bring out the bling with their Swarovski embellished patterns (for men and for women). Pair your bling tee with the celeb loved jeans that create the most bodacious butt, True Religion, or Citizens of Humanity if you prefer your glamour with a rock edge, and you're on your way to mastering the art of the casual chic daytime look as loved by the Hollywood elite. Make like the Real Housewives of Orange County (via Abuja) in a sexy low cut and heavily embellished top or dress by Sky. Or if you prefer your daytime attire a little more PG-13, take a look at the collection from Voom and Sweetees.

There's nothing like a shroud of mystery to keep tongues wagging and minds running into overdrive so for now, I'm not telling you who the owner is. I will run his Tiger Bites Q&A next week though. Yes I said HIS. But to keep your minds ticking away, the name D BOUTIQUE was created by the first letter of his surname and boutique sums up the concept of the store "A nice and peaceful area where one comes to relax, take their time and enjoy the day. I believe it's all about the shopping experience".

Uzi’s definitely gunning for style gold with this fabulous spot as he clearly has a firm grip on the stylish weapons in his arsenal. Love it.

Monday........10am to 8pm
Tuesday.......10am to 8pm
Wednesday...10am to 8pm
Thursday......10am to 8pm
Friday...........10am to 8pm
Saturday.......10am to 8pm
Sundays........12pm to 6pm

Website: http://www.dboutiqueng.com

Office: 0805 768 8888

41 Jimmy Carter Street, Asokoro, off Yakubu Gowon Crescent (Villa Side)
Abuja, Nigeria

Flex Drops the Truth about BET Interview

2008-09-19T07:41:00.001+01:00

I'm so glad to see a prominent person in the music community telling it like it is.

Watch the Kells clip first though.

R. Kelly Down Low...Nobody Has to Know?

2008-09-19T07:38:00.001+01:00

Relax, its not 'the tape' but a very interesting clip from an interview he did on BET. SDMF, if there was any doubt in anybody's mind as to what he did.....this clip confirms it. You don't have to be a genius to note:-
1. "When you say teenage how old are we talking?"
2. "I have 19 year old friends but i don't like anybody illegal."
3. Watch his eyes and his body language as he answers that question.
4. Over explanation is always a sign of guilt in my book.
5. And in his over-explanation he starts to confuse himself...listen to the bit about his brother...
6 "It depends on who you're saying is all and what they're saying".

Wowza, Kells. This was so not a smart move. Who's your PR rep and why in God's name did they let you loose on TV? Just because you didn't get convicted doesn't mean you're innocent. The legal system is flawed, we all know that.

Yes I poked fun at the case in January...
http://tigerbites.blogspot.com/2008/01/whats-r-without-r.html

But this is s.e.r.i.o.u.s.

This guy is guilty!

I have a law degree and this is exactly why I would never be able to be a lawyer. criminal law is the mot interesting but what happens when you have to do your job and defend a guy like Kells who is so obviously guilty.

Little Bit of Lace

2008-09-17T22:09:00.007+01:00

With a little bit of lace....we can make it through the night.

Ain't that the truth?

'Hollering with the rinsing sound' was what DJ Luck and MC Neat had in mind with their garage anthem...but I'm sure they'd agree with my point about lace.

Seems we're set for a bit of an 80s throwback this autumn/winter, with the bright coloured tights, tartan/plaid/check prints everywhere, ankle boots (shooboots) big bold florals....and one of my personal Madonna inspired favourites...lace.

So sexy, so feminine. Black is the obvious colour but it can work well in other colours too.

I found there and they're a little Michael Jackson, a little Madonna and very sexy. Again, its not for everyone so you're bound to get some odd looks, but as I always say, leave the haters to choke on their hatorade.

Call me OCD but I always feel the need to wear gloves on public transport...yes, I said it. You know you always think it too.
I'm loving the pair on the left, £4 from www.asos.com.

The fingerless pair on the right are bound to inspire pesky passers-by to hum Beat It as you walk past, but hey, they're cute and your important finger will still be visible enough for an impolite gesture. $6 from www.forever21.com.

These skirts are a very easy sexy, way to wear a little lace. They work by day or by night, just depends on what you wear them with. For day, a tank and cute cardi with ballet pumps, or when its chillier a poloneck and boots.
LEFT: $30 from www.forever21.com. This skirt is more pretty pretty and delicate which works.
RIGHT: £50 www.warehouse.co.uk. This skirt is a bit more interesting, edgy and goth..which I'm totally loving.

Lace leggings....Hmmm. Very 80s but I love it. Choose how to wear them carefully otherwise they could probably look really crap. I'd say evening as opposed to daytime, and worn with a mini dress or long top, probably black or a dark colour. Work the dark angel look and you're a lot more likely to get sexy right!
LEFT: Kova & T are really making a name for themselves with their finger on the pulse offering of leggings. First the liquid latex and now these.
$120 www.ronherman.com.

RIGHT: If you'd rather save your pennies on such a transient fashion item, try these from www.asos.com for £15. They're not completely lace, they just have a lace panel down the side which might or might not make them more to your liking. (I prefer the Kova & T).

By night, lace looks great on a cute prom dress. Yes, the prom dress is still big news and looks set to stay. Its such a cute flattering shape on most body shapes.
LEFT: This black lace prom dress has a corset bodice which will amplify your fabulous hourglass shape. Love it. Was $40 now $20. www.forever21.com.

RIGHT: How about some old school colour? This As U Wish Bordeaux vintage lace prom dress is just too cute. Making me think about the party season already....www.nordstrom.com Was $78 now $52.

LEFT: I love the two tone colour of this silver antique lace Anna Sui dress. Absolutely fabulous. Was $430 now $300. ....www.net-a-porter.com

RIGHT: Marchesa do some of the prettiest, glamorous dresses around and although this one has a lot going on, with the ruffled tiers, the beaded belt, scalloped hem and scalloped neckline...I LOVE it. ....www.net-a-porter.com $3400 now $2550.

LEFT: The olive green and shape of this dress make it decidedly grown up and sophisticated. Christian Lacroix ....www.net-a-porter.com $1370.

RIGHT: You must have noticed by now, I'm a huge DVF fan. She always gets it right! Love this dove grey chiffon and lace shift Oleada dress. ....www.net-a-porter.com $485 now $339.

LEFT: This white dress from Karta is the perfect white dress. I have an incredibly similar dress and it fab as it always works, by day, by night, dress it up with glam heels, dress it down with cute ballet pumps. A true style winner! ....www.tobi.com

RIGHT: Miu Miu is a big name I'm a big fan of. How genius is the dress? Lace printed on chiffon? Love it. And love the delicate and feminine colour combo too. ....www.net-a-porter.com Was $1540 now $1048.

LEFT: Love the very 80s cobalt blue of this lace trim jersey dress. This is one of the few that could work well by day. Also comes in black...which truth be told, would be my preference. ....www.oasis-stores.com £50.

RIGHT: This is a very proper dress for a very proper occasion like a wedding or something. Its quite a mature style but if you go glam with the accessories, you'd be amazed how big a difference that could make. I'm talking those fetish type Dior Extreme Gladiator shoes in black or gold, an outsize croc clutch, some big gold hoops and your hair in a ponytail...see? Grown up Glam. Lela Rose floral cut out dress from ....www.net-a-porter.com $1095 now $547.

LEFT: Since L'Wren Scott did that black glittery dress in a very similar shape for Sarah Jessica Parker at the MTV awards, I've been paying a lot of attention and I LOVE her style. I'm loving this dress. Yes it works best with a banging body (or at least, with the help of Spanx) but I love the way this dress is so covered up yet sooo sexy. Make like SJP and wear with pale shooboots, or those Extreme Gladiators.

RIGHT: This is another very grown up very proper dress, so wear it with an abundance of attitude and bold accessories to tone down the properness of the dress. AKA New York ....www.net-a-porter.com $330.

Nothing will ever be quite as sexy as underwear as outwear and if one team have this down to a t, its those people at ....www.victoriassecret.com. Both these dresses would look fab worn with a long chunky cardigan and riding boots. Work it.

LEFT: Victoria's Secret lace trim satin slip $58.

RIGHT: Victoria's Secret satin ballet length slip $27.

Let me know your thoughts on how you'll be wearing a little bit of lace this season.
xoxo

I See You Baby - People Pics NY Fashion Week

2008-09-16T00:48:00.009+01:00

So last week we took a quick peek at the runway pieces and now we're taking a good look at who was papped out and about looking fabulous.

I See You Baby.

The Marc Jacobs show pulled in the biggest and the baddest celeb guestlist of the week.

Padma...wowza, she's got legs for miles. Can anyone tell me how someone who professes to be obsessed with food stays so slim?

Vicky B. Never one to miss a shameless pap fest of a photo opportunity. She took her arrival with J Lo at the Marc Jacobs show to show the world her new pixie cut. I like it. I think it suits her, won't suit a lot of the many that will copy her. She's got wide eyes and pixie features which is usually the basic requirement for such a short choppy crop. Master of reinvention. Me likey.

Julia Restoin Roitfeld (daughter of French Vogue editor, Corinne Roitfeld) looking fabulous in her liquid leggings and her chiseled piece of arm candy, Magnus Berger.

Helena. Now this is why only a handful of models were ever called super. This woman is giving all the young bloods a very good run for their money. Fabulously sexy.

Nicole Richie put in an appearance in a monochrome outfit with a suitably grimy rocker edge and a hippy style headband. Cute. And clearly Marc's been working out.

Doesn't she look absolutely gorgeous in this pic? Well, they say motherhood makes you radiant (especially when you have a fleet of staff on hand to lessen your load).

Jigga...what's my m*tha f***in' name? A little too contrived in I'm-a-badass-hip-hop-star way but whatever. He ain't a patch on Kanyeze who is looking SOOOOOOO contrived in his daft outfit. Hate it. Looks like he spent far too long to be straight getting ready. And that's aside from the fact that I find him intensely irritating anyway.

Queen B of fashion week, Anna Wintour sits serenely on her throne with her gorgeous daughter Bee Schaffer.

Rachel Zoe looking a little pinched and remarkably line free. Anyone say botox? Haven't been able to look at this woman the same way since I heard Perez Hilton calls her Chupacabra....which means bloodsucker, his whole angle being she's been sucking the life blood out of young hollywood to make them thin and keep her alive. So wrong but so funny.

And there were a bevy of beauties papped out and about at other fashion shows during NY fashion week.

Just looking at him makes me want to slap those spoddy glasses off. Take it easy man. Relax. Anyway luckily his intense repellant effect on me is watered down by the joyous looking Joy Bryant, on their way out from the Thakoon show.

And here's Joy again, looking more joyous in what I think is a Marc by Marc Jacobs jacket. Such a simple and stylish outfit, love it.

Tinsley Mortimer in her signature pose with her signature ringlets at the Carolina Herrera, one of the enduring favourites of the Upper East Side echelons of society.

Natasha Bedingfield with Zoe Saldana at the Max Azria show looking like they're having a jolly good time. (Take note kanye)

Heidi Klum looking like her usual fabtastic self at her buddy Michael Kors shows. He definitely adds a lot to the Project Runway panel.

Lauren Conrad looking cute as a button at the Nanette Lepore show.

Nicole Fiscella, ex model and Gossip Girl star (even though I swear I've never heard her speak on the show...anyone say token black friend?). Looking fab at the Nanette Lepore show.

How lovely is this? Blake Lively and her mum Lori Lively at Michael Kors. Clearly Blake was dunked at the deep end of the gene pool.

Brandy at the Prada show. Looking cute in the abstract polka dot top.

Cassie and Letoya Luckett looking absolutely f.a.b.o.u.l.o.u.s. at the D Squared party. Hotness.

Cassie for all her lack of singing skills, is one of the hottest chicks in the game. Very cute dress. Want it.

The always adorable Paula Patton with her crooing husband Robin Thicke. Such a cute couple.

And now for something very interesting....THE FASHIONISTAS
They'll spend their last dollar on that piece of fashion fabulosity they can't afford. They'll relentlessly shop at sample sales gilt and ebay so they can wear that much coveted Thakoon MC Hammer pantsuit. They wake, breathe, (don't) eat and dream fashion. They live in cigarettes, coffee and water and maybe the occasional undressed salad so they can stay looking fabulous in the sample sized clothes they borrow from the wardrobe of the magazine they work for. I admire their foolhardy determination and dedication to a cause. Fashionistas of NY, I salute you.

Madeline Weeks at Marc Jacobs. Very cute outfit.

Agyness backstage at Oscar de la Renta.

Virginia Smith at Michael Kors. Love the outfit.

Roopal Patel has a wicked way with her fab accessories. Love it.

Brit beauty Jourdann Dunn at Oscar de le Renta.

And the following pics were shamelessly poached from The Sartorialist's running commentary of NY fashion week for style.com. Love it. These women all look FABULOUS.

I See You Baby - NY Fashion Week Runway Part 2

2008-09-15T08:09:00.005+01:00

As promised here's part 2 of the decidedly un-diva take on NY Fashion Week. I looked through the pictures and happily selected what I thought was cute, fun, fierce, sexy an absolute must have. My only premise being what would I wear?

So after taking a good look at the offerings from DVF and the lesser known Alexander Wang. Today I'm starting with a name I've only discovered this year....Boy by Band of Outsiders. I fell in love with their Ivy League inspired preppy style on eluxury the first time I saw it there.

Boy by Band of Outsiders
For their Spring/Summer collection they did it in a really simple, stylish way and just got Kirsten Dunst to model their entire collection. The result is a set of laidback, unfussy ubercool pictures for their lookbook. Kirsten is know for her easy breezy slightly ruffled style and proved to be their perfect muse. The quirky reinterpretation of classic preppy are just what the sexy tomboy uptown kids (determined to look like kooky downtowners) need.

LEFT: Looks like the shorts suit is big news again for next summer. I'm loving the easy laidback cappuccino linen with the slick black shirt. Sexy without trying too hard. love it.

RIGHT: I'm all about a great white shirt for its understated sex appeal. And worn with this bandage inspired skirt, with the yellow shoes, is a winner in my eyes. I just love yellow shoes. They're pretty much a neutral colour as they work with everything and are a great easy way of adding a pop of colour to a monochrome outfit like this one.

LEFT: Camel is such an effortlessly stylish timeless colour and work over the belted white dress, it makes a fab summer outfit for a smart work lunch.

RIGHT: This is one of those dresses that looks crap on the hanger yet when you put it on its surprisingly sexy in a forgiving way (i.e. you can eat a big dinner wearing it) yet it still has fabulous shape. Love the colour too.

LEFT: Again a kooky take on the sexy secretary look. It seems Scott Sternberg (head designer) was quite inspired by Mad Men. The polo in a pale pink cashmere and the lightweight cashmere grey skirt. I wouldn't wear them together but as separate pieces they're both those items that you know would get plenty of play over the summer.

RIGHT: The shorts suit strikes back in an easy to wear, suits everybody shade of grey and I love the way it looks with that dusky mauve shirt. Very cute.

ROCK AND REPUBLIC
SDMF. If one designer got what women want right on the NY catwalk it was Rock and Republic. Yeah, I'd never paid much attention to them either. I'd only heard of them because of Vicky B then I saw this collection and holy moly...they GET it. What do they get? The very simple thing that women want...to look beautiful.

Yes theirs was a more aggressive ubersexy type of beauty with the tight black clothes, big hair, smoky eyes and towering stiletto es.

But damn, who doesn't want to look this hot? The take no prisoners brand of fierceness needed to pull these looks off is an admirable quality in itself.

LEFT: Short, sexy, asymmetric, strength softened by the ruffles. And the perfect white summer dress is becoming a style essential. Love it.

RIGHT: And the sexier, sleeker version in black. Its a little more streamlined, with a lower straighter neckline and downsized ruffles but its still one hot tamale of an LBD.

LEFT: The fierceness of this white suit is highlighted by the model's strut. I defy any man to not give you what you're asking for in a suit this hot! And the shoes....those shoes!

RIGHT: Damn. You've got to be one hell of a minx to pull off this black leather dress. To those who can. I take my hat off to you.

LEFT: A stylish contemporary take on the classic women's tux. Love the shape of the white jacket, the superskinny black jeans and the ruffled shirt. Understated sexy. Love it.

RIGHT: This one is just too easy. Too sexy, too fierce. White superskinny jeans in real life however, are an entirely different matter!

LEFT: Simple but you can imagine how those well placed studs on this LBD move as you shake and shimmy the night away.

RIGHT: Ruffles are big news for next summer and this top is an easy way to welcome them into your wardrobe. I'm loving the spiderweb leggings too. Not in white though, perhaps black with the web in white would be more my speed.

LEFT:Chanel Iman....is just too fierce! Love the exposed zip on the tube top and I'm LOVING those leggings. Not to be worn together by the rest of us, but damn, this is a good look.

RIGHT: Almost too straightforward for the catwalk but I love its simplicity. And versatility. Dinner, cocktails, party, club...works for all evening occasions.

BCBG MAX AZRIA
This was my last pick from NY fashion week. The clothes were unfussy, superstylish and in bright pops of colour which is usually what most of us want when the sun comes out again.

LEFT: As I mentioned earlier, the sexy, stylish white dress for summer is a style must...everybody is busy having white parties every summer now, so you'll probably need a few. Its hard to find a white dress that works well at night, too short, too tight and too white is just too hooch. I love the slightly unexpected layering of this one. Demure yet very sexy at the same time. Love it.

RIGHT: I'm becoming a bigger fan of heather grey by the minute and this is another dress that's sexy because of its unexpected layering and draping. And you can see how it skims and hugs in all the right places. Want this.

LEFT: Another asymmetric ruffled dress. Clearly a big trend for next summer. Its the dove grey hue of this one that caught my eye. Discreetly luxurious. Love it.

RIGHT: And now here's some of that colour I was talking about. i love the bold bright coral of this dress, and the extra diaphanous layer that glides as you walk....love it. And I love the way they toughened it up with those black shoes.

LEFT: Very summery style, and I'm loving the superbright electric blue. Its like a modified wrap dress, stylish, simple and very sophisticated dahling.

RIGHT:Orange isn't a colour we see so much and I love this slightly burnt orange. The subtle ruching and draping means its one of those dresses that's notoriously difficult to wear...all the more reason to love it when you get it on properly!

I See You Baby - NY Fashion Week Runway Part 1

2008-09-12T04:12:00.008+01:00

As NY fashion week has drawn to a close, who won, who lost, who sold, who's left feeling like crap as nobody ordered what they had?

Well, I think we'll all have to wait until Spring/Summer 2009 for the most conclusive answers to that.

But as a welcome break from all the diva-ness and overly serious articulation of opinions that surrounds fashion week, I decided to look at fashion week from a different perspective. What would I buy...and wear?

So without a second thought of who said what clouding my vision and a very clear, singular purpose...what would look fierce on me....here we go.

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG
Diane von Furstenberg called her show 'Rock Goddess', but 'Love Child' might've been a more apt title for this breezy Spring collection. The collection had a happy, hippy laidback vibe, with lots of pretty colours, diaphanous silks in strong colours. Exactly what we all need to put a spring in our steps and a smile on our faces as we battle our way through what's looking like a distinctly dreary economic climate.

DVF is one of my favourite designers as she dresses women like women. Bold, beautiful, strong women. What's not to love about that?

LEFT: Ok, the head attire looks great on the runway but obviously I wouldn't wear that. The black dress is very covered up but the cut, draping and the way it skims over the body is supremely sexy. Would be a fab choice to wear to a dinner do...dark angel.

RIGHT: The monochrome print is so cute and pretty. Dress it up with heels or down with flats and you have yourself one versatile dress that's good for brunch, lunch, cocktails and dinner.

LEFT: I am sooo in love with this white 3 piece suit. Start out in all 3, then as your day (garden party) or night (any type of party) hots up, lose the jacket and you have one hot mama of an outfit.

RIGHT: Love the floppy hat with the white shift. Not sure if I'd wear it in yellow, but it looks so good in this picture I just might. Those floppy hats are perfect for politely ignoring people, you can just 'pretend' you didn't see them.

LEFT: Love a sexy lace dress and this is a sexy lace dress. The A line shape and long sleeves give it that boho luxe vibe we all love so much and worn with some fabulous bright (or metallic if you're feeling a little more tame) and you've got yourself a hot ticket to a white party.

RIGHT: This is such a pretty dress. Wear it to a wedding (and pretend its cream), any type of garden party, christening, to meet his parents...any occasion when you might want to look a little demure.

LEFT: Cardigan OR dress, I wouldn't wear both but its a fabulous colour and print. It works really well with the belt, metallic clutch and laced up shoes.

RIGHT: Simple, stylish and very necessary grey jersey top. This is one of those tops that looks great with everything. The shiny shorts, could work. With a plain tshirt...ok I'll admit, I thought it was a skirt at first glance. I'd prefer it as a skirt.

LEFT: Abstract colourful prints are always a winner in summer and the combination of the very demure looking dress with the very deep v neck....is definitely eye-catching. I'd lose the gold jacket though.

RIGHT: Love a good maxi dress in the summer and I am sooo in love with this fantastic plum shade. The shape is very hippy, boholuxe and sophisticated at the same time. Love it.

LEFT: The clashing print of the summer coat and the dress actually work. Obviously not for the shy and retiring but I love it. Bold, bright and beautiful.

RIGHT: I hate(d) that whole dress over jeans thing but I'm soooo loving this sheer maxi dress over trousers. Very slick, sophisticated and stylish.

ALEXANDER WANG
Is one of those names that's been popping up on my horizon more frequently, on celebs, in magazines. I like his style. After a Fall collection done almost entirely in black, the new palette took shape during a trip to Miami, home not just of those amazing tropical Art Deco pastels but also of the so-bad-it's-good eighties tackiness of Miami Vice.

LEFT: This is one of those so-stylish-it-hurts, takes on a simple shirt dress, but with a couple of top buttons undone and feminised with more delicate heels and a softer bag, I would so wear this. The baby blue makes it a very daytime look, but the blue has a brightness to it that lets you know...it ain't cheap.

RIGHT: This bright baby blue shorts suit is so cute and so 80s. I'm not a fan of shorts suits....but i am so loving this one its almost enough to convince me otherwise. I think the key thing with an outfit like this is to bear in mind there's nothing serious about it, its totally a party outfit!

LEFT: You certainly won't be eating any pies in this short, tight, white dress but I love the drapey detailing and the way it criss crosses over the body. Love it with those hardcore black heels too. Very sexy.

RIGHT: This is a much easier to wear outfit. As an outfit or separates. the flowy white top or the tight white skirt. Tight white skirts can be difficult to wear well, my main piece of advice would be keep the top very simple, and not tight and you'll be looking fierce. Especially if you wear it with these kind of shoes.

LEFT: This is more about the top than the trousers. That gorgeous shade of lilac/grey, asymmetry at the neckline and asymmetry at the back...love it. Would look fab with jeans.

RIGHT: Ok clearly for normal people, this is no dress. But I love it, over the past year or two I've been falling in love with grey more and more. And this must be the sexiest grey tshirt I've ever clapped my eyes on.

LEFT: Love the laidback vibe of this grey sweatshirt and leather trousers. Very easy to emulate and I'd swap the leather for latex leggings .
Not because I'm some hair animal lover, I just think leather trousers still look just a teeny weeny bit naff.

RIGHT: Again its the asymmetry that caught my eye. I like asymmetric clothes, especially when it comes to what to wear at night. It looks so sexy and stylish without being prim, prissy or overly done up.

That's all for today but I'll be back with 3 more designers over the weekend.

Have a good one!
xxx